hold one's ground

USAGE SUMMARY

"hold one's ground" is a correct phrase in written English
It is used to describe someone standing their ground in the face of difficulty or opposition. For example: The candidate refused to back down, holding her ground on the issue of raising the minimum wage.

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

(Of course, one can hold, on other grounds, that they in fact have different status, as McMahan himself does).

SEP

When we turn to morality, what counts as good grounds for holding one view rather than other?

SEP

Standing one's ground is one thing.

The New York Times

Instead of holding one-to-many classes via Webex, the company is building a new product from the ground up.

TechCrunch

They may want to argue with you on this one, but hold your ground.

Huffington Post

He didn't play frail today, holding his ground on one critical passage to a fantasy finish.

The New York Times - Sports

I hold my ground pretty sternly.

Los Angeles Times

The ground breaking was held on December 19 , 2008

Wikipedia

Judge Johnson, for one, seems determined to hold his ground.

The New York Times

Cadillac forgot to hold the high ground.

Forbes

If no one enquires after your origins, it means you hold, unquestioned, the centre ground in life.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "hold one's ground" to convey resilience and determination in maintaining a position against opposition. This phrase is particularly effective when describing a situation where someone is under pressure to change their stance but refuses to do so.

Common error

While "hold one's ground" is generally acceptable in most contexts, avoid using it in highly formal or academic writing where more sophisticated or precise language might be preferred. Consider using terms like "maintain one's position" or "remain steadfast" in such cases.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "hold one's ground" functions as an idiomatic expression. According to Ludwig AI, it describes someone standing their ground against difficulty or opposition. It typically acts as a verb phrase within a sentence, often following a subject.

Expression frequency: Missing

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the idiomatic phrase "hold one's ground" signifies maintaining a position or opinion despite opposition. According to Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and used to describe someone standing their ground in the face of difficulty or opposition. While versatile, it is more suited for neutral or informal contexts rather than highly formal writing. Alternatives such as "stand firm" or "maintain one's position" may be preferable in formal settings. Its function is to convey resilience and determination.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

stand firm

This alternative emphasizes resilience and determination in maintaining a position.

stand one's ground

This is a variation of the original phrase and thus maintains very similar meaning.

remain steadfast

This phrase highlights unwavering commitment and resolve in the face of opposition.

dig in one's heels

This alternative implies a stubborn refusal to yield or compromise.

refuse to budge

This option emphasizes the act of not moving or changing one's opinion or position.

maintain one's position

This phrase directly focuses on the act of keeping one's current stance.

stay the course

This alternative suggests continuing a chosen path despite difficulties or opposition.

not give way

This option highlights the act of resisting pressure and refusing to collapse.

defend one's stance

This emphasizes actively protecting and justifying one's position.

stick to one's guns

This alternative implies unwavering adherence to one's beliefs or principles.

FAQs

How can I use "hold one's ground" in a sentence?

You can use "hold one's ground" to describe someone who is maintaining their position or opinion despite opposition, like: "The candidate refused to back down and decided to "stand firm"".

What are some alternatives to "hold one's ground"?

Some alternatives to "hold one's ground" include "stand firm", "maintain one's position", or "refuse to budge", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "hold one's ground" appropriate for formal writing?

While "hold one's ground" is widely understood, it may be more suitable for informal or neutral contexts. For formal writing, consider alternatives like "remain steadfast" or "defend one's stance".

What does it mean to "hold one's ground"?

To "hold one's ground" means to maintain your position, opinion, or stance in the face of opposition or pressure. It implies a refusal to yield or compromise.