hold on

verb

1. to maintain a firm grasp

   she held on with all her strength

2. to continue or persist
3. foll by to to keep or retain

   hold on to those stamps as they'll soon be valuable

4. to keep a telephone line open

interjection

1. informal.
   stop! wait!

Example Sentences

It is thought that the decision was made in part to help Ukraine hold on to part of the Kursk region, to use as a bargaining chip in future negotiations.

From BBC

I value my friendships far more than holding on to anything that doesn’t serve me.

From Los Angeles Times

The Clippers did see their lead sliced to seven points with 3:18 left in the fourth quarter after Jordan Clarkson made a three-pointer, but they held on for the win.

From Los Angeles Times

He was also 15-14 down and a leg away from an exit, but Littler broke Anderson's throw and then held on to secure his final place.

From BBC

Batter Joe Root and fast bowler Mark Wood are also not among the 37 England-qualified players in the auction, which will be held on 24 and 25 November.

From BBC

Related Words

• exist
• go on
• hold
• linger
• live
• live on
• persist
• remain
• ride out
• stay
• survive
• sustain