Meaning trap
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.
Don't mix these meanings
Same phrase, different job.
to continue to exist, stay strong, or not give up when things are tough or resources are running out.
Hear it in context
Notice where the phrase sounds natural.
- We only have enough food to hold out for another two days.daily life
- During the flood, the villagers had to hold out for a week before help arrived.IELTS speaking
Fix the pattern
Pattern: hold out (for something) | hold out (against something)
WrongOur supplies held on for a week.
RightOur supplies held out for a week.
For supplies or resistance lasting, use 'hold out' (not 'hold on', which is wait/grip).
Patternhold out (for something) | hold out (against something)
Use it right
Choose the version that sounds natural in speech.
'Hold out' naturally means last or survive under pressure. 'Managed to survive until' is wordy.
Build natural chunks
Words that usually travel with it.
hold outthe suppliesthe defendersuntil helpfor days
Don't confuse it
'Hold on' means to wait or not let go, while 'hold out' means to survive or keep going.