hold still

USAGE SUMMARY

"hold still" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is used to give a command or instruction for someone to stop moving or to remain still. Example 1: "Hold still while I take your picture." Example 2: "The doctor asked the patient to hold still while she administered the injection." Example 3: "During the game of freeze tag, the players had to hold still when they were tagged."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

"Hold still.

The Guardian - Books

"Hold still, Sam.

The Guardian - Books

She better hold still".

The New Yorker

"Hold still," he said in my ear.

The New York Times

Ow!' 'Hold still,' Martha said.

The Guardian

"Hold still please!" he pleaded.

The New York Times

"Please hold still" October 10, 2016.

The New Yorker

They hold still for several minutes, then change position.

The New Yorker

Hold still and watch Paigie, watch her sort".

The New Yorker

Compulsively original, he wouldn't hold still to be revered.

The New Yorker

"It'll be quick if you just hold still".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When instructing someone to be still for a specific task like a photograph or medical procedure, clearly explain the reason for the request to encourage cooperation.

Common error

While "hold still" is acceptable in many situations, avoid it in very formal writing. Instead, opt for phrases like "remain motionless" or "maintain stillness" for a more professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "hold still" functions primarily as an imperative, giving a direct command or instruction to someone to remain stationary. Ludwig provides numerous examples of this usage in various contexts, confirming its function as a directive.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Science

20%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "hold still" is a grammatically correct and frequently used imperative phrase, primarily instructing someone to stop moving. Ludwig AI confirms its common usage across various contexts, particularly in news, science, and wiki sources. While generally neutral to informal in register, it's advisable to use more formal alternatives like "remain motionless" in professional settings. The phrase is versatile and commonly understood, making it a practical choice for everyday communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

don't move

Provides a straightforward command, emphasizing the prohibition of movement.

stay still

A simple synonym emphasizing the state of remaining still.

keep still

A slight variation that emphasizes the act of maintaining stillness over time.

remain motionless

Replaces the informal "hold" with the more formal "remain" and "still" with "motionless", increasing the formality.

please be still

Adds a polite tone to the command, making it less direct.

be still

A more general instruction to cease movement or agitation, which can be used in a wider range of contexts.

stand still

Specifically instructs someone to remain stationary while standing.

stay put

Offers a more casual and direct way of telling someone to remain in their current location.

stay right there

Directs someone to remain in their exact current location, rather than just not moving.

freeze

A more abrupt and informal command, often used in games or urgent situations.

FAQs

How can I politely ask someone to "hold still"?

You can soften the command by saying "please hold still" or "could you hold still?".

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "hold still"?

"Hold still" is appropriate in informal and neutral contexts, such as giving instructions for taking a photo, applying first aid, or playing a game. It's less suitable for very formal situations.

What is a more formal alternative to "hold still"?

In formal settings, consider using phrases like "remain motionless" or "maintain stillness".

What's the difference between "hold still" and "stay still"?

Both phrases are very similar, but "hold still" is often used for shorter durations or for specific actions, while "stay still" can imply a longer period or a general state of stillness.