I hold that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'I hold that' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you are giving an opinion or expressing a standpoint in an argument. For example, "I hold that all citizens have the right to have a safe and clean environment."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

I hold that flag".

The Guardian - Film

I hold that record, but I was not just an enforcer.

The New York Times - Magazine

"So I hold that over his head," she says, and giggles.

The Guardian - Books

"If he wanted to attack a particular position I hold, that was fine.

The New York Times

I hold that child's hand, he holds the hand of his older self, we make the mystic chain and raise the ghosts of as yet undreamt machines".

The New York Times

But I can't say it more eloquently than Pastor Huckabee — Governor Huckabee just did, and I admire his description, because I hold that view.

The New York Times

"I hold that Mr Ramsay, acting though his agent Mr Hutcheson, is bound by the guarantee in the lease of the premises".

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"With Jonathan Swift, sir, I hold that man to be the greatest benefactor of his country who causes two blades of grass to grow where one cloverleaf stood before.

The New Yorker

I hold that view myself, apparently, for here in my new home I&apos m surprised when my daughter crash-lands in the playground and a sanguine Spanish stranger picks her up and dusts her off.

The New York Times - Books

I do so not simply because of empirical facts but because there are certain political and philosophical beliefs I hold that run deeper than facts; beliefs about rights, values and what it is to be human.

The New York Times

"In light of what we've seen about the semantics of physical modality," Wallace wrote in the closing passage, "I hold that Taylor's semantic argument does not in fact yield his metaphysical conclusion".

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the audience and context. While "I hold that" is generally acceptable, alternatives like "I believe" or "in my opinion" may be more appropriate for informal settings.

Common error

Avoid using "I hold that" excessively in casual conversations or informal writing. It can sound overly formal or even pretentious. Opt for simpler alternatives like "I think" or "I believe".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I hold that" functions as a declarative statement, introducing a personal belief, opinion, or judgment. It sets the stage for the speaker to articulate their viewpoint on a particular matter. Ludwig AI confirms this usage through numerous examples across diverse sources.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "I hold that" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed expression to introduce a firmly held belief or opinion. As Ludwig AI confirms, it’s considered appropriate for formal and neutral contexts, such as academic papers, news articles, and professional discussions. While "I hold that" is widely accepted, being mindful of the audience and opting for less formal alternatives such as "I believe" in casual settings is important. When writing, avoid overusing it, and consider related phrases like "I maintain that" or "in my opinion" to diversify your writing. Common errors include using this expression in a casual conversation. Overall, "I hold that" remains a valuable tool for expressing conviction in many scenarios.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I believe that

A more common and slightly less formal way to express a personal belief.

I maintain that

Suggests a firmer stance and a willingness to defend the stated belief.

I contend that

Implies an argument or debate where the belief is being asserted.

In my opinion

A direct and simple expression of personal opinion.

I am of the opinion that

A more formal version of expressing a personal opinion.

It is my belief that

Shifts the emphasis slightly to the belief itself rather than the speaker.

I am convinced that

Indicates a strong level of certainty regarding the stated belief.

I assert that

Presents the belief as a confident and forceful statement.

I posit that

Introduces a statement as a starting point for reasoning or discussion, common in academic contexts.

From my perspective

Highlights that the statement is based on a particular viewpoint or understanding.

FAQs

How can I use "I hold that" in a sentence?

The phrase "I hold that" is typically followed by a clause expressing your belief or opinion. For example, "I hold that all citizens have the right to a fair trial".

What are some alternatives to "I hold that"?

You can use alternatives like "I believe that", "in my opinion", or "I maintain that" depending on the context and level of formality.

Is "I hold that" suitable for formal writing?

Yes, "I hold that" is appropriate for formal writing, particularly when you want to express a well-considered opinion or viewpoint. It conveys a sense of conviction and is often used in academic or professional contexts.

What's the difference between "I hold that" and "I think that"?

"I think that" is generally less formal and implies a degree of uncertainty or speculation. "I hold that", on the other hand, suggests a stronger conviction and a more carefully considered belief.