hold fast

USAGE SUMMARY

"hold fast" is correct and usable in written English.
It is an idiom that means to remain secure or hold on firmly to an idea, opinion, or belief. For example, "In times of crisis, it is important to hold fast to your values and stay strong."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The sentiments hold fast today.

The New York Times - Health

Have faith and hold fast!

The Guardian - TV & Radio

"Hold Fast" opens with a mystifying incident.

The New York Times - Books

Let us hold fast to preserve it.

The New York Times

How much to hold fast to memory?

The New York Times

Verse - "Hold fast thy sword and scepter Charles".

Yale University

But other schools hold fast to their slow approach.

The New York Times

Can governance then hold fast and sustain it?

The Economist

Mr. Duncan should hold fast to that plan.

The New York Times

Would they still hold fast 45 years on?

The Guardian - Lifestyle

It can help us buckle down and hold fast.

Harvard Business Review

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "hold fast" to encourage someone, ensure the context clearly indicates what they should be steadfastly maintaining, whether it's values, beliefs, or a physical object. This adds clarity and impact to your message.

Common error

Avoid using "hold fast" in overly casual or informal conversations where simpler expressions like "hang on" or "stay strong" might be more appropriate. It maintains the phrase's impact for more significant or formal situations.

Linguistic Context

Hold fast primarily functions as an idiomatic verb phrase. It's used to express the idea of maintaining a firm grip (physically or metaphorically) or adhering strongly to a belief or principle. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable nature in English, as evidenced by various examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Academia

25%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Science

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "hold fast" is a versatile idiomatic phrase signifying steadfastness and perseverance. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically sound and commonly used, particularly in News & Media and Academic contexts. Its function ranges from urging commitment to reinforcing beliefs. While it maintains a neutral register, it's best to avoid overusing it in very casual settings. Remember to clearly define what needs to be maintained or adhered to for maximum impact. Alternatives like "cling to" or "stand firm" can offer subtle variations in meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

cling to

Focuses on maintaining a tight grip or close connection to something, whether physical or metaphorical.

stand firm

Emphasizes resilience and unwavering resolve in the face of opposition or difficulty.

persevere

Highlights the continuation of effort despite obstacles, stressing the duration of commitment.

remain steadfast

Suggests unwavering loyalty and commitment, often in a formal or moral context.

keep faith

Implies maintaining trust or belief, often in a religious or spiritual sense.

stay the course

Advises continuing on a chosen path, especially when facing challenges or temptations to deviate.

maintain resolve

Highlights the importance of keeping a firm decision or determination.

stick to your guns

Emphasizes defending one's beliefs or decisions, even when facing opposition.

not give way

Focuses on resisting pressure or force, emphasizing the refusal to yield or surrender.

stand your ground

Implies defending a position or belief against attack or criticism.

FAQs

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

"Hold fast" can be used to encourage someone to maintain their beliefs or to physically grip something tightly. For example, "In times of trouble, "hold fast to your values"" or "Hold fast to the rope so you don't fall".

What are some alternatives to "hold fast"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "cling to", "stand firm", or "persevere". Each carries a slightly different nuance but conveys a similar sense of resilience and determination.

Is "hold fast" formal or informal?

"Hold fast" is generally considered a somewhat formal expression, suitable for writing and speeches. In casual conversation, simpler phrases like "hang on" or "stay strong" might be more appropriate. However, "hold fast" isn't out of place in many news articles and books, so it is safe to use in both contexts if appropriate.

What does it mean to "hold fast to your dreams"?

To "hold fast to your dreams" means to tenaciously pursue and maintain your aspirations, even when facing challenges or setbacks. It emphasizes the importance of not giving up on what you want to achieve.