"Can't get a hold of" vs "Can't get ahold of"

Question

"Can't get a hold of" vs "Can't get ahold of"

Both "can't get ahold of" and "can't get a hold of" are commonly used phrases in English. The difference lies in the spelling of "ahold" as one word or "a hold" as two words. Both versions are correct, but "can't get ahold of" is more commonly used in informal contexts.

Last Updated: March 27, 2024

This phrase also means being unable to contact or reach someone. It can be used in spoken and written English, in both formal and informal situations.

Examples:

I can't get a hold of my boss to ask for time off.
She couldn't get a hold of the author for an interview.
He's been trying to get a hold of the IT department all morning.
They can't get a hold of the supplier to place the order.
We couldn't get a hold of the principal to discuss the issue.

Alternatives:

can't reach
can't contact
can't get in touch with
can't get through to
can't communicate with

This phrase means being unable to contact or reach someone. It is often used in spoken English and informal writing.

Examples:

I can't get ahold of my friend to ask about the party.
She couldn't get ahold of the customer service representative.
He's been trying to get ahold of you all day.
They can't get ahold of the landlord to fix the leak.
We couldn't get ahold of the tickets for the concert.

Alternatives:

can't reach
can't contact
can't get in touch with
can't get through to
can't communicate with

Answer 1

Can't get a hold of

This phrase is correct and commonly used in both formal and informal contexts.

Answer 2

Can't get ahold of

This phrase is correct and commonly used in informal contexts.

"Can't get a hold of" vs "Can't get ahold of"

Can't get a hold of

Can't get ahold of

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