hold sacred

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "hold sacred" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to something that is regarded with great respect or reverence, often in a religious or moral context. Example: "Many cultures hold sacred the traditions passed down through generations."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Instead, he promised to step up the war on much of what his opponents hold sacred.

The New Yorker

Finally, she has betrayed what every nonfiction writer should hold sacred — the stories of other people.

The New York Times

To uncover them, ask yourself: What beliefs do we all hold sacred?

Harvard Business Review

"We swear on all that we hold sacred you will be killed," the letter says.

The Guardian

He has tried to undermine all we hold sacred: Lenin, the Soviet system, Soviet power — everything dear to us. . . .

The New Yorker

But on the face of things, this is depressing news for the people on earth, whatever they hold sacred.

The Economist

But that doesn't mean that none of the above were reasons not to violate what others hold sacred.

The New York Times

Violating a core principle many believed even the junta must hold sacred, the authorities turned their guns on the monks.

The Guardian

I can take everything they pride themselves on away from them; I can make them betray everything they hold sacred.

The Guardian - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

Credited with magical powers, they are frequently held sacred.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Of course the petroglyphs are held sacred by some.

The New York Times - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

To enhance the impact of the phrase "hold sacred", consider preceding it with descriptive language that emphasizes the importance or unique significance of the subject being revered.

Common error

Avoid using "hold sacred" too casually in everyday or secular contexts. Overusing it can dilute its impact and make your writing seem overly dramatic or insincere. Consider alternatives like "value greatly" or "respect deeply" for less formal situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "hold sacred" primarily functions as a verb phrase, indicating the act of regarding something with profound respect and reverence. It is often used to emphasize the importance of values, traditions, or principles. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Academia

18%

Science

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "hold sacred" is a powerful verb phrase used to convey deep respect and reverence. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent usage, particularly in News & Media. To use it effectively, ensure the context emphasizes the importance of the values or principles being revered. While it's a valuable phrase, be cautious of overuse in secular contexts to maintain its impact. Consider alternatives like "revere" or "cherish" for varied expression. Remember, the key is to use it judiciously to highlight the profound respect and inviolability of certain beliefs or practices.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

revere

Expresses deep respect and admiration, similar to holding something sacred, but with a slightly stronger emphasis on admiration.

cherish

Implies a tender and protective love or care for something, akin to regarding it as sacred.

venerate

Suggests a formal and deep respect, often associated with religious figures or objects, paralleling the idea of holding something sacred.

value greatly

Highlights the high importance and worth attributed to something, similar to considering it sacred.

respect deeply

Focuses on the profound respect and esteem held for something, analogous to treating it as sacred.

treasure

Indicates something is considered precious and valuable, much like something held sacred.

esteem

Emphasizes a high level of respect and admiration, similar to the reverence implied by holding something sacred.

regard as inviolable

Highlights the untouchable or unbreakable nature of something, implying a sacred status.

consider hallowed

Implies something is seen as holy or consecrated, akin to holding it sacred.

hold in high regard

Indicates something is greatly respected and admired, similar to the value placed on something held sacred.

FAQs

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

You can use "hold sacred" to describe something you deeply respect, for example: "We "hold sacred" the principles of freedom and justice."

What can I say instead of "hold sacred"?

You can use alternatives like "revere", "cherish", or "venerate" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "held sacred" instead of "hold sacred"?

Yes, "held sacred" is the past participle form and can be used in constructions like "traditions "held sacred" for generations".

What's the difference between "hold sacred" and "hold dear"?

"Hold sacred" implies a higher degree of reverence, often with religious or moral connotations, while "hold dear" suggests a more personal and affectionate attachment.