hold on to
keep something and not give or sell it to anyone else
to keep something and not let anyone else have it, often because it is valuable or important to you.
I think I'll hold on to my old phone for a bit longer.
"hold" — same verb, different meanings · Part 2 of 2
Phrasal verbs built on "hold" — same verb, but the particle changes the meaning. Pick the one that fits.
hold
on to
hold on toto keep something and not let anyone else have it, often because it is valuable or important to you.I think I'll hold on to my old phone for a bit longer.
out
hold outto continue to exist, stay strong, or not give up when things are tough or resources are running out.We only have enough food to hold out for another two days.
out for
hold out forTo refuse to accept less than what you want, and keep waiting until you get it.She decided to hold out for a better job offer instead of accepting the first one.
up
hold upTo cause someone or something to be late or to slow down.Sorry I'm late—the traffic really held me up this morning.
hold out
to last or survive in a difficult situation
to continue to exist, stay strong, or not give up when things are tough or resources are running out.
We only have enough food to hold out for another two days.
hold out for
wait until you get what you want
To refuse to accept less than what you want, and keep waiting until you get it.
She decided to hold out for a better job offer instead of accepting the first one.
hold up
delay
To cause someone or something to be late or to slow down.
Sorry I'm late—the traffic really held me up this morning.