holding line

USAGE SUMMARY

"holding line" is a correct phrase used in written English.
For example, you could say, "We are holding line on the new regulations until further notice." This phrase implies that they are maintaining the current regulations until further instructions are given.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

EXTEND BOOM (TELESCOPING BOOM) (One-handed signal used when holding line).

The New York Times

RETRACT BOOM (TELESCOPING BOOM) (One-handed signal used when holding line).

The New York Times

For decision holding line item veto unconstitutional, see Clinton v. City of New York, 524 U.S. 417, 118 S.Ct.

Cornell University

Journalists have been driven spare by her refusal to shift from the holding line that she will get the "best possible deal for Britain" – as if she might seek anything else.

The Guardian - Opinion

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Vice

What burned with minimal success against our holding line earlier re-ignited and burned much more successfully in the canopies.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

Firefighters took advantage of cooler weather overnight to reinforce holding lines around a blaze that has destroyed two dozen homes.

Los Angeles Times

Captain Porsena spurs men on to hold line.

The New Yorker

In contrast, 65% of men on executive committees hold line jobs.

Harvard Business Review

It was a "holding the line" job.

The Guardian

By holding the line on DACA, we are holding the line on our democracy being overrun by white supremacists.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "holding line" in writing, ensure the context clearly indicates what is being maintained or defended. For example, "The company is holding the line on prices despite rising costs."

Common error

Avoid using "holding line" when a more specific verb phrase would be more appropriate. For example, instead of "holding the line on innovation", consider "fostering innovation" if the aim is to actively encourage it, not just maintain a current level.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "holding line" functions as a verb phrase, often used as part of a larger verb construction (e.g., "is holding the line," "were holding the line"). It describes the action of maintaining a specific position, standard, or boundary. Ludwig AI indicates that it's a correct and well-understood phrase.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

20%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "holding line" is a versatile verb phrase signifying the act of maintaining a position, standard, or boundary against opposition. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically sound and widely recognized. The phrase is commonly found in News & Media, Academia, and Wiki sources, indicating its broad applicability across diverse contexts. Alternatives like "maintaining the position" or "keeping the line" can be used for variety, depending on the specific nuance desired. When employing "holding line", ensure clarity regarding what is being maintained and avoid overuse in situations demanding more specific verb choices. Its register is generally neutral to professional, making it suitable for a range of communication styles.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

keeping the line

A more concise and direct synonym, focusing on adherence.

maintaining the position

Focuses on the act of keeping a specific stance or location.

preserving the boundary

Emphasizes the protection of a defined limit or border.

maintaining standards

Highlights the upholding of established quality levels.

defending the perimeter

Conveys the idea of protecting an outer boundary or area.

upholding the policy

Specifically relates to maintaining a rule or guideline.

guarding the barrier

Highlights the act of protecting a physical or metaphorical barrier.

sticking to principles

Emphasizes adherence to a set of beliefs or values.

protecting the frontier

Focuses on guarding a less-defined or more contested boundary.

safeguarding the status quo

Highlights the preservation of the current state of affairs.

FAQs

How can I use "holding line" in a sentence?

You can use "holding line" to describe maintaining a boundary, position, or standard. For example, "The team is "holding the line" against the competition" or "The government is "holding the line" on tax increases."

What does it mean to "hold the line"?

To "hold the line" means to maintain a position, standard, or boundary against opposition or change. It implies resisting pressure to deviate from a set course or level.

What can I say instead of "holding line"?

You can use alternatives like "maintaining the position", "preserving the boundary", or "keeping the line" depending on the context.

Is "holding line" formal or informal?

"Holding line" can be used in both formal and informal contexts, but it is generally more common in professional or news-related settings.