hold a contest

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "hold a contest" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in formal or informal contexts to suggest organizing a competition of some kind. For example, "Our company held a contest to design our new logo. We had a great response with many creative designs!".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

35 human-written examples

Let's remove ESTA's foolish questions and hold a contest to design a beautiful Web site.

The New York Times

It might be worthwhile to hold a contest for the best name, Professor Zeckhauser suggested.

The New York Times

On the final night, the Harlem Renaissance Orchestra will hold a contest for Lindy dancers.

The New Yorker

And it will hold a contest, asking Americans to film their own public-service announcements about flu.

The New York Times

Another Egyptian blogger, Amr Bassiouny, noted wryly on Twitter that Tahrir Square should hold a contest for the "best beard" and face veil.

The New York Times

In the state that will be the first to hold a contest in the 2012 presidential campaign, even if it has to do it in 2011.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

22 human-written examples

The company held a contest.

The New York Times - Science

"When he was 16, he held a contest based on rolling a Yahtzee dice.

The New York Times

On Surf Avenue, Ms. Bernasconi held a contest for the longest shadow, judged with measuring tape.

The New York Times

Major League Baseball is holding a contest in the song's honor.

The New Yorker

RealPlayer held a contest to see who could create the best skin for the band Foo Fighters.

The New York Times - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When planning a contest, clearly define the objectives, rules, and criteria for judging to ensure fairness and attract relevant participants.

Common error

Don't assume participants will come just because you've created a contest. Actively promote it through various channels (social media, email, partnerships) to maximize reach and engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "hold a contest" functions as a verb phrase indicating the act of organizing, managing, and conducting a competition or event. Ludwig AI confirms its common usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

57%

Wiki

15%

Formal & Business

9%

Less common in

Science

9%

Academia

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "hold a contest" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase that signifies the act of organizing and conducting a competition. Ludwig AI analysis of numerous examples reveals its frequent appearance in news and media sources, as well as general-purpose wikis, indicating broad applicability. The phrase is generally neutral in register, making it suitable for various communicative purposes, from announcing a competition to generating interest or achieving a specific goal. While alternatives exist, such as "organize a competition" or "run a competition", "hold a contest" remains a straightforward and effective way to convey the intended meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

organize a competition

Focuses on the organizational aspect rather than the act of 'holding' or conducting the contest.

run a competition

Emphasizes the management and administration of the contest.

launch a contest

Highlights the initiation or beginning of the contest.

stage a contest

Implies a planned and prepared event, similar to staging a performance.

conduct a competition

Stresses the formal execution and management of the contest.

host a competition

Highlights the role of providing the venue or platform for the contest.

sponsor a competition

Suggests providing financial or other support for the contest.

establish a contest

Emphasizes the creation and setting up of the contest.

put on a contest

Similar to 'stage', implying a deliberate and organized presentation.

preside over a competition

Focuses on the act of overseeing and managing the contest, often from a position of authority.

FAQs

What does it mean to "hold a contest"?

To "hold a contest" means to organize and conduct a competition in which participants compete for a prize or recognition.

What are some alternatives to saying "hold a contest"?

You can use alternatives like "organize a competition", "run a competition", or "launch a contest", depending on the context.

Is it better to say "hold a contest" or "organize a contest"?

Both "hold a contest" and "organize a contest" are correct and widely used. The choice depends on the nuance you want to convey. "Hold" emphasizes the act of conducting the event, while "organize" focuses on the planning and preparation.

How do you ensure a successful contest?

Ensure a successful contest by clearly defining the rules, promoting it effectively, offering attractive prizes, and engaging with participants throughout the process.