"hold on" vs "hold in"

Question

"hold on" vs "hold in"

Both phrases are correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'Hold on' is used to ask someone to wait or to keep something for a short period of time. 'Hold in' is used to describe the action of keeping something inside or not letting something out.

Last Updated: March 15, 2024

'Hold on' is used to ask someone to wait or to keep something for a short period of time. It can also be used to express the idea of continuing to hold onto something physically or metaphorically.

Examples:

Hold on a moment, I'll be right back.
Hold on to the railing while you walk down the stairs.
Hold on to your dreams and never give up.
Hold on to the receipt in case you need to return the item.
Hold on to your hat, it's going to be a bumpy ride.

Alternatives:

wait
pause
hang on
stay
keep

The phrase 'hold in' is used to describe the action of keeping something inside or not letting something out. It can refer to emotions, physical actions, or containment.

Examples:

She tried to hold in her laughter during the serious meeting.
You need to hold in your anger and think before you speak.
The dam was built to hold in the water of the river.
He had to hold in his excitement until the surprise was revealed.
The doctor advised her to hold in her breath during the medical procedure.

Alternatives:

contain
restrain
suppress
conceal
keep inside

Answer 1

hold on

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

Answer 2

hold in

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

"hold on" vs "hold in"

hold on

hold in

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