hold out for
phr. v..phr. v.. to wait for something better instead of accepting what is offered now.
phr. v.. to delay agreement or acceptance in the hope of obtaining a more favorable offer or outcome; typically used in negotiations.
The workers are holding out for a better pay deal.
She decided to hold out for a higher salary rather than taking the first job offer she received.
Despite the mounting pressure from the board, the CEO continued to hold out for a merger that would better protect the employees' pensions.
- Particles
- out for
- Separability
- inseparable
- Pattern
- hold + out + for + object
always followed by an object, which is the specific thing the person wants to get.
contrast with 'settle for' (to accept something less than perfect); 'hold out for' implies a level of risk or patience on the part of the subject.
They are holding out a better price.They are holding out for a better price.the preposition 'for' is essential to connect the action to the desired goal or object.