Mastering Phrasal Verbs Using “Hold With” — Meanings, Examples, and Tips for Perfect Usage
Introduction
Hey there! Today, I’m diving into a really interesting topic that often confuses learners of English: phrasal verbs using "hold with". If you’ve ever wondered what “hold with” really means or how to use it correctly in different contexts, you’re in the right place. Phrasal verbs are a staple of natural English speech, and understanding them will make you sound more fluent and confident. But here's the twist—while many learners get the basic phrasal verbs down, "hold with" tends to be overlooked or misunderstood. So, let's clear that up once and for all!
What Does "Hold With" Mean?
"Hold with" is a less common phrasal verb, but it pops up in both spoken and written English, especially in formal or literary contexts. At its core, "hold with" means to agree with or support a certain idea, person, or plan. Think of it as standing behind or backing something.
Definition List
| Term | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Hold with | To agree with, support, or endorse someone, an idea, or an opinion. |
| Hold against | To keep resentment or bias towards someone or something after a disagreement or issue. |
| Hold out for | To refuse to accept less than what is desired or expected. |
How to Use "Hold With" in Sentences
Using "hold with" can seem tricky at first because it’s often more formal or old-fashioned. But it’s handy in expressing your support or agreement. Here’s a detailed look:
-
Support or Agree:
I don’t hold with such harsh criticism.
She holds with the idea that education is the key to success. -
Oppose or Disagree (less common):
Sometimes, “hold with” can also imply disagreement if contextually negative, but generally, it’s supporter-oriented.
Variations and Related Phrases
Understanding phrases similar to "hold with" will help you grasp its nuanced usage better.
| Phrase | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Hold against | To maintain resentment or bias toward someone. | He holds against her because of past mistakes. |
| Hold out for | To insist on receiving or achieving something before accepting a deal | They held out for better terms. |
| Hold on to | To keep or maintain possession or support. | Hold on to your dreams. |
Practical Examples of "Hold With" in Context
Let me walk you through some enriching examples:
| Sentence | Explanation |
|---|---|
| "I can't hold with that opinion, it’s just not convincing." | The speaker does not support that opinion. |
| "Our team holds with the new policy, as it benefits everyone." | The team agrees and supports the policy. |
| "She doesn't hold with violence; she prefers peaceful protests." | She opposes violence. |
Why Is Understanding "Hold With" Important?
Getting a proper grasp of "hold with" boosts your ability to express support or disagreement more precisely, especially in formal discussions, debates, or academic settings. It also enriches your vocabulary, giving you a subtle way to express nuances—whether you're in favor or against something.
Tips for Success with "Hold With"
- Identify the context: Is the sentence supportive or opposing? This guides whether "hold with" or its negatives apply.
- Use in formal writing: Common in essays, reports, and speeches; it’s a slightly formal support expression.
- Practice with synonyms to avoid overusing one phrase—mix it up!
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
| Mistake | Explanation | How to Fix It |
|---|---|---|
| Using "hold with" to mean "to grasp physically" | Confusing it with literal holding | Always check if the context is about support or agreement. |
| Using in informal speech where "agree" suffices | Slightly archaic or formal tone | Use "agree" or "support" in casual contexts. |
| Misplacing the phrase in a sentence | Wrong placement affects clarity | Practice with example sentences to gain confidence. |
Variations and Similar Expressions
Knowing similar phrases will sharpen your understanding:
-
"Hold with" vs "Hold on to"
"Hold with" supports ideas, while "hold on to" involves keeping or retaining something. -
"Hold against" — implies holding resentment, not support.
Example: "He still holds against her because of that mistake." -
"Hold out for" — insist for a better deal or outcome.
Example: "They held out for higher wages."
Importance of Correct Usage
Using "hold with" correctly not only enhances your clarity but also demonstrates a good command of nuanced English. It signals to your audience that you’re comfortable with subtleties—making your speech or writing more persuasive and refined.
Practice Exercises
To cement your understanding, try these practice sections:
1. Fill in the blank:
- I don’t ________ with that outdated theory.
- She ________ with the proposed changes.
2. Error Correction:
- He hold with her opinion.
(Corrected: He holds with her opinion.)
3. Identification:
- Is this "hold with" or "hold against"?
She still holds against her ex-husband’s actions.
4. Sentence Construction:
- Create a sentence using "hold with" to show support for a cause.
5. Category Matching:
| Phrase | Support | Oppose | Retain |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hold with | ✓ | ||
| Hold against | ✓ | ||
| Hold on to | ✓ |
Summary & Key Takeaways
Understanding and properly using "hold with" unlocks a subtle yet powerful way to express agreement and support in English. Remember, it’s more formal and often used in nuanced conversations. Incorporate it into your vocabulary, practice regularly, and avoid common mistakes like confusing it with literal holding or overusing in casual speech.
Final Words
Mastering the use of "hold with" and related phrases will make your English sound more polished and natural. Practice, read contextually, and stay attentive to nuances—you’ll be surprised how quickly you’ll get the hang of it. Remember, the key to language fluency is understanding the tiny details that make your speech or writing clearer and more persuasive. Keep practicing, and you’ll hold with confidence every time!
Thanks for sticking with me on this deep dive into "hold with." Keep practicing these concepts, and soon you'll wield this phrase effortlessly in both formal and informal contexts!