held position

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "held position" is correct and can be used in written English.
It typically refers to someone or something maintaining a specific location or role. Example: The soldier held position on top of the hill, watching for any enemy movement.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

32 human-written examples

He insisted that Israel's doggedly held position of nuclear weapons ambiguity had not changed.

The Guardian

At the start he held position through the first corner, behind Heikki Kovalainen in a McLaren.

The New York Times - Sports

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

The Guardian

Vettel held position and Webber dropped behind Kubica by the first corner, while Hamilton leaped to sixth.

The New York Times - Sports

Some Democrats have been calling to abolish U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, but it's not a widely held position.

The Washington Post

Cavendish's team moved to the front inside the final five kilometres and held position under pressure from their rivals.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

28 human-written examples

But it couldn't have been a strongly-held position given his eagerness to give it up only weeks later for a vote.

Vice

But in an interview, Pugash reiterated the police's long-held position that they have "no choice" when it comes to turning undocumented residents to CBSA and that to say otherwise was a misinterpretation of the law.

Vice

He reiterated the university's long-held position against binding arbitration.

The New York Times

About an hour into the debate, Mr. Romney seemed to adjust his long-held position.

The New York Times

Neither side made a new proposal or even budged from its long-held position.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "held position" to clearly indicate that someone or something has successfully maintained a specific location, rank, or viewpoint, especially when facing potential change or opposition.

Common error

Avoid using "held position" in contexts where a dynamic or proactive action is required. This phrase is best suited for scenarios emphasizing stability and retention rather than aggressive advancement or change.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "held position" primarily functions as a verb phrase, typically used to describe the action of maintaining a specific location, rank, or viewpoint. It is often used to convey stability or resistance to change, similar to the examples found in Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Academia

30%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "held position" is a versatile verb phrase used to describe the act of maintaining a specific location, rank, or viewpoint. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage across various contexts. As demonstrated by Ludwig examples, the phrase frequently appears in News & Media, Academia, and Science. To use it effectively, remember that it emphasizes stability and retention, and should be distinguished from the imperative form "hold position". Alternatives like "maintained its station" or "stood its ground" can provide nuanced variations in meaning. Pay attention to the context to ensure its appropriate usage. Overall, "held position" is a reliable and valuable phrase for expressing the idea of maintaining a state or status quo.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

maintained its station

Focuses on the act of keeping a specific location or post.

retained its ranking

Emphasizes the continuation of a specific order or level.

preserved its place

Highlights the act of keeping a certain spot or position.

stood its ground

Suggests resisting pressure or opposition to maintain a location or belief.

kept its footing

Implies maintaining stability or balance, both literally and figuratively.

remained in control

Highlights the act of keeping power or authority over a situation.

upheld its stance

Focuses on defending a particular belief or point of view.

sustained its lead

Indicates continuing to be ahead or in first place.

secured its station

Emphasizes the establishment and maintenance of a specific post.

persevered in its role

Highlights continuing to fulfill a specific function or duty despite challenges.

FAQs

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

You can use "held position" to describe maintaining a specific location, rank, or viewpoint. For example: "The company "held position" as the market leader despite increased competition".

What are some alternatives to "held position"?

Alternatives include "maintained its station", "retained its ranking", or "stood its ground", depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "hold position" instead of "held position"?

"Hold position" is the imperative form, used as a command or instruction. "Held position" is the past tense, describing a completed action of maintaining a position.

What's the difference between "held position" and "maintained its stance"?

"Held position" generally refers to physical locations or established rankings, while "maintained its stance" /s/maintained+its+stance more often refers to upholding a specific viewpoint or belief.