Hold Out – Meaning and Examples
Have you ever refused to give in during a tough negotiation? Or seen someone offer a gift with their hand extended? Maybe you’ve kept going through a hard week, hoping things will improve? In English, all these situations can use the phrase hold out. This flexible phrasal verb has a few key meanings—and once you know them, you’ll hear it everywhere!
What Does “Hold Out” Mean?
“Hold out” has three main uses:
1. To resist or refuse to agree—often in negotiations or pressure (“They held out for a better deal.”)
2. To offer or present something—usually with your hand (“She held out her keys.”)
3. To last or endure—especially under difficulty (“Will our supplies hold out until help arrives?”)
Think of it like standing firm, reaching forward, or hanging on—depending on the situation. It’s never about “holding” and “out” as separate ideas.
When to Use It
Use “hold out” in everyday conversations:
• In negotiations or conflict: “The workers held out for higher pay.”
• When physically offering something: “He held out a map to the tourists.”
• When enduring tough conditions: “I don’t know if my patience will hold out.”
It’s neutral—great for speaking, storytelling, or casual writing. Avoid it in very formal reports unless describing resistance or duration.
Example Sentences
- The team held out for three extra days before accepting the offer.
- She held out her hand to help him up.
- Do you think the battery will hold out during the trip?
- Don’t hold out on me—tell me what happened!
Mini Dialogue
Leo: “They offered you the job—why didn’t you take it?”
Mira: “I’m holding out for a better salary. I know my worth!”
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Don’t confuse “hold out” with “hold on” (which means wait) or “hold up” (which can mean delay or rob). Also, when offering something, “hold out” must include the object being offered—not just the action.
❌ Don’t say: “He held out to help me.” (This is unclear.)
✅ Do say: “He held out his hand to help me.”
✅ Do say: “They held out for a fair contract.”
Practice Tip
When someone offers you something, notice how they extend their hand—and think, “They’re holding it out.” When you’re waiting for a better option or pushing through a tough moment, remind yourself, “I’m holding out.” These real-time observations build natural fluency.
Final Note
Now you can use “hold out” to show resistance, make an offer, or express endurance—with clarity and confidence! Keep listening for it in movies, news, or daily talk. Every time you recognize it, you’re one step closer to sounding like a native speaker. You’ve got this!