hold out
/hoʊld aʊt/to resist or endure something difficult or unpleasant
The soldiers held out against the enemy for days.
The soldiers resisted the enemy for days.
He held out until the last minute to finish his work.
He endured until the last minute to complete his work.
Often used to describe enduring physical or emotional hardship.
to offer something for consideration or sale
The store is holding out a special discount this weekend.
The store is offering a special discount this weekend.
She held out her hand to shake.
She offered her hand to shake.
Can also mean to extend something physically.
to delay or refuse to give something
The company held out on paying the bonuses.
The company delayed or refused to pay the bonuses.
He held out for a better offer.
He refused to accept until a better offer came.
Often used in negotiations or when someone is being stubborn.
Collocations
Related Phrases
💡Pro Tip
Context Matters
The meaning of 'hold out' changes based on context. Always check the surrounding words to understand the intended meaning.
⚡Gold Rule
Resistance vs. Offering
If 'hold out' is followed by 'against,' it means resistance. If followed by 'for,' it often means waiting for something better.
📖Word Origin
From Middle English 'holden out,' meaning to extend or offer something.
📝Usage Notes
The meaning of 'hold out' depends heavily on context. It can mean to resist, to offer, or to delay, so pay attention to the surrounding words.