a holding position

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a holding position" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where you refer to a temporary state or location where something is kept or maintained until further action is taken. Example: "The team decided to keep the project in a holding position until they received additional funding."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

19 human-written examples

As a holding position, it is a cunning plan.

The Guardian - Opinion

Almost by default, the government has adopted a holding position while it, and Tata, seek private buyers.

The Guardian - Business

She had spent the previous ten years in a holding position, her legs locked under a table.

The Guardian - Books

Associates of Mr. Conde said this was likely to be a holding position of sorts — a precursor to a more specific appointment.

The New York Times

Last year's meeting in Lima ran more than 36 hours over time – and negotiators were essentially working on a document intended mainly as a holding position.

The Guardian

I'm just trying to find out whether you think this really can work, or whether this is just a holding position.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

41 human-written examples

Despite some operational challenges these new services present, the analyst contended AT&T's 4.8% dividend yield provides support and maintained a "hold" position on company stock.

Forbes

They paddled north constantly, barely holding position against a southbound current.

The New Yorker

Just a select few, holding positions of elected office.

TechCrunch

Large IPO buyers can serve as an anchor by buying a lot of stock and holding positions for a while.

TechCrunch

"By now this is quite a widely held position," he said, speaking on condition of anonymity.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a holding position", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being held and what the expected future action or resolution will be. Clarity prevents confusion about the temporary nature of the situation.

Common error

Avoid treating "a holding position" as a permanent solution. Continuously reassess and actively work towards a long-term strategy; stagnation can undermine the purpose of a temporary measure.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a holding position" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as a subject complement or object of a preposition. Ludwig AI examples show it describes a temporary state or strategy, as confirmed by Ludwig AI analysis.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

63%

Science

21%

Formal & Business

16%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a holding position" is a phrase used to describe a temporary state or strategy, often while awaiting further information or developments. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage across various contexts, particularly in News & Media, Science, and Formal & Business settings. While it serves as a useful way to indicate a provisional approach, it is important to avoid treating it as a permanent solution and to actively work toward a long-term strategy. Consider alternative phrases like "temporary role" or "interim measure" for subtle variations in meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

placeholder status

Emphasizes the function of occupying a space until a definite solution or person is available.

interim measure

Highlights the provisional quality of the action taken.

provisional arrangement

Stresses the conditionality and possible changes in the future.

temporary role

Focuses on the transient nature of the function rather than the strategic aspect.

caretaker situation

Implies a state of managing affairs until a permanent solution is established.

stopgap solution

Emphasizes the problem-solving aspect of the temporary arrangement.

transitional phase

Highlights the shift from one state to another, using a temporary measure.

standby mode

Suggests readiness and anticipation for a forthcoming event or directive.

preliminary stage

Focuses on the beginning aspect of a process and its tentative quality.

contingency plan

Highlights the preparatory nature of the measure for unexpected occurrences.

FAQs

How can I use "a holding position" in a sentence?

You can use "a holding position" to describe a temporary strategy or state. For example, "The company adopted "a holding position" on new investments until the market stabilizes."

What phrases are similar to "a holding position"?

Similar phrases include "temporary role", "interim measure", or "provisional arrangement", which all imply a non-permanent state.

Is "a holding position" formal or informal?

"A holding position" can be used in both formal and informal contexts, depending on the situation. It is commonly found in news, business, and even scientific contexts.

When is it appropriate to use "a holding position" instead of a more permanent solution?

Use "a holding position" when facing uncertainty, awaiting further information, or needing a temporary solution before implementing a long-term strategy. It's suitable when a full commitment is premature or impractical.