holding promise

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "holding promise" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something has potential or is likely to be successful in the future. Example: "The new technology is holding promise for revolutionizing the industry and improving efficiency."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

23 human-written examples

Embryonic stem cells have the potential to grow into any cell or tissue, holding promise for repairing and replacing damaged organs.

The New York Times

His challenge was to prove that his vision for the country is one that can extend to everyone rather than simply holding promise for the few.

The Guardian - Opinion

When biotechnology boomed in the late 80's and early 90's, so did the demand for the kind of discoveries coming out of Dr. Hopkins's lab at the M.I.T. Cancer Research Center, where her work on zebra fish has revealed which genes are needed to build key organs in vertebrates, holding promise for cures for everything from birth defects to cancer.

The New York Times

The probe is operable in human serum samples, thus holding promise for diagnostic-related applications.

Biosensors and Bioelectronics

Five structurally diverse hit compounds active against TryR and holding promise for the treatment of Chagas disease are reported.

Bioorganic & Medicinal Chemistry Letters

Besides, this biosensor also shows superior selectivity, good stability, and easy reproducibility, holding promise as a good candidate for enzymeless glucose sensing.

Electrochimica Acta

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

36 human-written examples

That adaptability holds promise.

The New Yorker

Global trade holds promise.

The New York Times

Other mobile devices hold promise.

The New York Times - Tech

Only quiet negotiation and patience hold promise.

The New Yorker

The blunt title holds promise.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "holding promise" to express a grounded optimism, supported by evidence or initial results, rather than unfounded hope. Back it up with tangible reasons when possible.

Common error

Avoid using "holding promise" when there is little to no evidence to support the claim. Overusing it can diminish credibility and make your writing seem overly optimistic or unrealistic.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "holding promise" primarily functions as a verbal phrase that modifies a noun, indicating that the noun possesses the potential for future success or positive outcomes. As Ludwig AI indicates, the phrase is widely accepted and used in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

50%

News & Media

45%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "holding promise" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression to denote potential for future success or positive outcomes. As Ludwig AI confirms, its usage is widespread and accepted. It frequently appears in scientific and news contexts, indicating a neutral register. When using this phrase, it's crucial to ensure the context is clear about what the promise refers to and that the claim is supported by evidence to avoid overstating the potential. Consider alternatives like "showing potential" or "offering hope" to add nuance to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

showing potential

Focuses on the current display of abilities rather than future expectations.

offering hope

Emphasizes the positive expectations and optimism associated with the subject.

looking promising

Highlights the favorable appearance or initial signs of success.

suggesting potential

Implies that the potential is not yet fully realized but is indicated.

having prospects

Stresses the possibilities and opportunities that the subject possesses.

boding well

Indicates that future outcomes are likely to be positive based on current signs.

portending success

Suggests that future success is foreshadowed or indicated by current events.

seeming likely to succeed

Expresses a belief or expectation that success is probable.

on track for success

Indicates that current progress aligns with the path to achieving success.

with a bright future

Focuses on the positive outlook and potential long-term achievements.

FAQs

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

You can use "holding promise" to describe something that shows potential for future success or positive outcomes. For example: "The new treatment is holding promise for cancer patients."

What are some alternatives to "holding promise"?

Some alternatives include "showing potential", "offering hope", or "looking promising". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is "holding promise" formal or informal?

"Holding promise" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. It is frequently used in scientific literature, news articles, and general writing.

What does it mean when something is described as "holding promise"?

It means that the thing being described is expected to have positive results or be successful in the future, based on current indications or evidence.