hold mass

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "hold mass" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in a religious context to refer to the act of conducting a mass service, particularly in Christian traditions. Example: "The priest will hold mass every Sunday at 10 AM for the congregation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

27 human-written examples

The opposition had threatened to hold mass street protests today, but called them off after an appeal by Annan.

The Guardian

A series of attempts by rightwing Hindu groups to hold mass conversion ceremonies has sparked controversy in recent months.

The Guardian

Her son, a priest, has gotten special permission to hold Mass in the living room of the house.

The New Yorker

Although public executions have been discontinued, provincial cities still hold mass sentencing rallies, during which convicts wearing confessional placards are driven though the streets in open trucks.

The New York Times

The American version – the world's longest-running Big Brother franchise – rarely allows the public to have a say in the eviction process, while in the Philippines a priest visits the house every Sunday to hold mass.

The Guardian

Opposition leaders vowed to hold "mass action" from Wednesday through next Friday, heightening the standoff with the government in a crisis that has pitted ethnic groups against one another and left hundreds dead.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

32 human-written examples

The hospital, which receives no money from the Phoenix diocese, can no longer hold Masses.

The New York Times

Francis will give speeches, hold masses, and deliver homilies, including one in Havana's Revolution Square.

Vice

Shakespeare and opera held mass appeal.

The New York Times

But worshipers held Mass outdoors today after a tense night of aftershocks.

The New York Times

Recently almost half a million held mass protest meetings in 17 big market towns.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about religious events, use "hold mass" to specifically refer to the act of conducting a Catholic or similar liturgical service. Be mindful of the context to ensure appropriate usage.

Common error

Avoid using "hold mass" interchangeably with more general terms like "attend mass" or "organize a religious gathering". "Hold mass" specifically refers to conducting the religious service, not merely being present or arranging it.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "hold mass" functions as a verb phrase where "hold" is the verb and "mass" is the noun, together indicating the action of conducting a religious service. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

76%

Wiki

11%

Huffington Post

8%

Less common in

Science & Research

2%

Opinion

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "hold mass" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe the act of conducting a Catholic religious service, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. It appears frequently in news and media, as well as in general reference sources. While "hold mass" is generally neutral in register, it is essential to distinguish it from similar phrases like "attend mass" or "celebrate mass". Alternatives such as "conduct mass" or "officiate at mass" may provide nuanced alternatives depending on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

celebrate mass

Emphasizes the celebratory aspect of the religious service. Similar context but subtly different focus.

conduct mass

Focuses on the action of leading or organizing the religious service. Slightly more formal.

officiate at mass

Highlights the role of the officiant or leader of the mass. More specific to the person leading the service.

perform the mass

Similar to conduct mass, but may imply a more ritualistic or ceremonial performance.

preside over mass

Indicates a formal leadership role in the mass. Highlights authority.

offer mass

A more traditional or liturgical way of describing the act of celebrating mass, often used within the clergy.

say mass

A common and simple way to refer to conducting the mass, often used in conversation.

organize a mass

Focuses on the logistical aspect of arranging the service. Less about the religious act itself.

attend mass

Shifts the focus to the participants rather than the celebrant. Implies being present at the mass.

celebrate a religious service

Broader term that encompasses other religious services beyond a specifically Catholic mass.

FAQs

What does it mean to "hold mass"?

To "hold mass" means to conduct or celebrate a mass, a religious service in the Catholic Church and some other Christian traditions.

What can I say instead of "hold mass"?

You can use alternatives like "celebrate mass", "conduct mass", or "officiate at mass" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "attend mass" instead of "hold mass"?

No, "attend mass" and "hold mass" have different meanings. "Attend mass" means to be present at the service as a participant, while "hold mass" means to conduct or lead the service.

What is the difference between "hold mass" and "offer mass"?

"Hold mass" is a general term for conducting a mass. "Offer mass" is a more liturgical term, often used to describe the priest's role in presenting the sacrifice during the Eucharist. The term "offer mass" is more specific and formal.