hold a tune

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "hold a tune" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe someone's ability to sing or produce music in a way that is melodious and in tune. Example: "Despite not being a professional singer, she can hold a tune well enough to entertain her friends at karaoke."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Arts

Music

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

46 human-written examples

The song has improved since its debut more than a decade ago, when he used to try to hold a tune.

The Guardian

She can hold a tune.

The Guardian - Film

Not all could hold a tune.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

But I could barely hold a tune".

The Guardian - Books

She couldn't hold a tune, but she danced with abandon.

The New York Times

I can't hold a tune and, crucially, I can't tell whether someone else can either.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

14 human-written examples

They hold a tuning-fork and sound A, and everybody knows it really is A, though the time-honoured pitch is G flat".

The Guardian - Music

I try to imagine what it would be like to wear a costume that weighs over 10kgwhile attempting a swordfight, let alone holding a tune.

The Guardian

Holding a tune is actually their speciality - dedicated musos, they played like 1970s stadium behemoths (two of whom, Robert Plant and Ian Anderson, were in the balcony).

The Guardian - Music

(And every moment does: for a couple of words of light backup vocals, a revolving riff holding a tune together, and a short lead in harmony with Mr. Campbell. It was fascinating to see how Mr. Thurston slides into this puzzle, subsuming himself into the whole, no matter what he plays).

The New York Times - Arts

What happens when you hold a vibrating tuning fork next to a web with a spider in it?

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "hold a tune" when you want to describe someone's basic ability to sing or play music in pitch, even if they are not a professional.

Common error

Avoid using "hold a tune" to describe exceptional singing talent or professional vocal performances; it implies a basic level of competence rather than mastery.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "hold a tune" functions as a verb phrase, typically used in a sentence to indicate someone's basic ability to sing or play a musical instrument accurately. Ludwig's examples show its prevalent use in describing someone's musical competence.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

57%

Music

14%

Arts

9%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Science

4%

HuffPost

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "hold a tune" is a common and grammatically correct verb phrase used to describe someone's basic ability to sing or play music accurately. As Ludwig AI highlights, it's frequently found in news and media contexts, suggesting a neutral register. While it implies competence, avoid using it to describe professional skills. Alternatives like "carry a tune" offer similar meanings. Use "hold a tune" to set a baseline expectation, and be mindful of its implications in assessing musical talent.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be able to sing

Simple, direct statement of singing capability.

carry a tune

Similar meaning, implying the ability to sing in pitch.

sing in tune

Focuses specifically on singing accurately.

sing on key

Emphasizes the ability to maintain the correct pitch.

have a good singing voice

Broader term referring to overall vocal quality, including pitch.

have a musical ear

Indicates sensitivity to pitch and rhythm.

possess vocal control

Highlights the ability to manage and manipulate one's voice effectively.

master vocal technique

Highlights the achievement of skilled singing ability.

have perfect pitch

Refers to the rare ability to identify or sing any given note without reference.

be musically inclined

A general term for having a natural talent or affinity for music.

FAQs

What does it mean to say someone can "hold a tune"?

Saying someone can "hold a tune" means they can sing or play music in a way that's generally accurate in pitch. It suggests a basic level of musical competence rather than professional skill.

What's a synonym for "hold a tune"?

A close synonym for "hold a tune" is "carry a tune". Both phrases indicate the ability to sing or play music without significant pitch errors.

How do you use "hold a tune" in a sentence?

You can use "hold a tune" in a sentence like this: "Even though he's not a professional singer, he can "hold a tune" well enough to enjoy karaoke night."

Is it better to say someone can "hold a tune" or "sing well"?

The choice depends on the context. "Sing well" implies a higher level of skill and artistry. "Hold a tune" simply means someone can sing without being noticeably off-key, and is more close to "sing in tune".