hold the stage
To dominate a debate or field of interest; to be the main subject of attention.
Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
“The lead singer loves to hold the stage during every concert.”
“During the long board meeting, the CEO held the stage for an hour while explaining the new company vision.”
“While many experts contributed to the debate, the professor held the stage with a compelling argument that silenced the room.”
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apron-string hold
An estate held by a man during his wife's life.
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buy and hold
A passive investment strategy where an investor purchases an asset and retains it for many years, rather than trading it frequently.
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don't hold your breath
Don't wait. Said cynically to suggest that what has just been mentioned is unlikely to happen soon or at all.
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exit stage left
An orderly and uneventful departure, timed so as not to detract or distract.
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hold a grudge
To stay angry (at someone or something).
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hold a light
Synonym of hold a candle.
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hold back
To act with reserve; to contain one's full measure or power.
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hold by the button
To detain in conversation to the point of weariness or tedium; to bore while tallking to
Last updated August 10, 2026