hold rank

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "hold rank" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in a military or organizational context to indicate maintaining one's position or status, often in relation to authority or hierarchy. Example: "Despite the challenges faced by the team, she managed to hold rank and lead her colleagues effectively."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

Only Professors appointed on a continuing basis and without term in the Yale School of Medicine Clinician- Scholar, Clinician-Educator, and Investigandr Tracks shall be deemed to hold rank equInvestigatorrofessors wiTracksterm in the traditional track.

Yale University

The greatness of the Kardashians does not lie in overcoming insurmountable odds to hold rank or position.

Huffington Post

CAP cadets wear modified versions of United States Air Force uniforms, hold rank and grade, and practice military customs and courtesies.

Wikipedia

On this, and other lines that intersect the center of the city, senior beggars hold rank, and designate when to get on, get off and how vagrants can beg.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

Senate Republican leaders could not hold rank-and-file members against beginning floor debate, especially as Democrats signaled willingness to compromise on disputed provisions.

The New York Times

The secret of success in medieval battle was to hold ranks, so that comrades on either side would still be protecting your flanks.

The Economist

So the Rev. Jerry Falwell and other leaders were putting out word that it was time to hold ranks, maintain discipline and help Mr. Bush win.

The New York Times

Why, given that the Democrats, if they hold ranks on a crucial issue, need only a handful of Republican defectors to carry the day?

The New York Times

The increasingly vocal opposition from high-profile Democrats forced Obama to open a debate with longtime allies as he scrambled to try to hold ranks.

The Washington Post

His 1.24 earned run average is the lowest among A.L. relief pitchers, and his 28 holds rank second.

The New York Times - Sports

It's no surprise that McQueen holds rank as one of the 15 top-earning dead celebrities.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "hold rank" when you want to emphasize the formal maintenance of a position, especially in hierarchical systems like the military or academia.

Common error

Avoid using "hold rank" in informal contexts. It's not appropriate for describing casual relationships or everyday situations where maintaining a formal position isn't relevant.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "hold rank" functions as a verb phrase within a sentence. Ludwig AI shows it often describes the act of maintaining a position or status, particularly in hierarchical or organizational contexts.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

25%

Wiki

25%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "hold rank" is a phrase used to describe the act of maintaining a position or status, primarily in hierarchical contexts such as the military, academia, or government. While grammatically correct, as confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is relatively uncommon. It is best suited for formal and professional settings, as evidenced by its prevalence in news articles and academic texts. Alternatives include "maintain position" or "retain status", but the most appropriate choice depends on the specific nuance you intend to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Maintain position

Focuses on the act of keeping a specific placement or office, emphasizing stability and continuity.

Retain status

Highlights the preservation of one's social or professional standing, suggesting a resistance to decline.

Keep standing

Emphasizes the act of maintaining a specific position, often against opposition or competition.

Preserve authority

Underscores the safeguarding of power and control, suggesting a proactive effort to prevent erosion of influence.

Uphold position

Highlights the defense and support of one's role or duty, often in the face of challenges or criticism.

Sustain level

Emphasizes the maintenance of a certain degree or amount of achievement, quality, or intensity.

Keep the upper hand

Focuses on maintaining a dominant or advantageous position, suggesting control and superiority.

Conserve power

Highlights the saving and careful use of one's influence and control, indicating a strategic approach to leadership.

Secure station

Emphasizes the protection and fortification of one's place, indicating a concern for stability and permanence.

Defend title

Highlights the act of protecting one's rank or championship, suggesting a readiness to confront challengers.

FAQs

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

You can use "hold rank" to describe someone maintaining a position in a hierarchical structure, like "Only professors appointed on a continuing basis can "hold rank" in the traditional track."

What does it mean to "hold rank"?

To "hold rank" means to maintain a specific position or level of authority within an organization, especially in hierarchical systems like the military, academia, or government.

What are some alternatives to "hold rank"?

Some alternatives to "hold rank" include "maintain position", "retain status", or "keep standing", depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is "hold rank" formal or informal?

"Hold rank" is generally considered a formal expression, suitable for professional, academic, or military contexts. It is less appropriate for casual or informal settings.