Phrasal verb
hold up
Meanings
to delay someone or something; to slow progress
to remain strong or in good condition; to endure over time or under pressure
to raise or present something so it can be seen, checked, or examined
Definition
To hold up usually means to delay or prevent progress.
"Hold up" most often means to make something late or slow down. It can also mean to stay strong or remain in good condition when facing difficulties. In another common meaning, it can mean to raise something so it can be seen or checked.
Examples
- A flat tire held up our trip for an hour.
- I’m sorry I’m late—traffic held me up.
- Her old phone is still holding up after years of use.
- They held up their tickets at the entrance so the staff could scan them.
Common mistake
Learners often confuse "hold up" (delay) with "hold on" (wait) and say "Hold up a minute" when they mean "Hold on a minute."
More phrasal verbs
- go on To go on means to continue or keep happening.
- carry out To carry out something means to do it or complete it, especially a plan, task, or instruction.
- set up To set up means to arrange or prepare something so it is ready to use or happen.
- pick up “Pick up” most commonly means to collect someone or something from a place, usually by going there.
- go back To go back means to return to a place, time, or earlier situation.