# hold out

CEFR B2 · Phrasal verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/hold-out
Updated: 2026-10-22

## Definition

to continue to resist a difficult situation or to wait for something better instead of accepting what is offered now.

For teachers: to continue to resist or survive in a difficult situation; also, to refuse to accept an offer in hopes of a better one. Often functions as an intransitive verb of endurance.

## Examples

- The strikers are holding out for a better pay deal.
- The small army managed to hold out against the invaders for several weeks before help arrived.
- While the rest of the industry accepted the new regulations, one firm continued to hold out, citing concerns over operational costs.

## Pitfalls

- Not "Please hold out a moment." but "Please hold on a moment." — Learners often use 'hold out' when they mean 'wait a short time', which is actually 'hold on'.

## Usage notes

- usually followed by 'for' when expressing a specific demand or 'against' when resisting an opponent.
- Teaching tip: contrast with 'give in' to show the element of persistence; it is useful to mention the physical sense of 'holding out one's hand' to avoid confusion.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.