holding strong

USAGE SUMMARY

"holding strong" is a correct phrase in written English.
You can use it when you want to describe a situation that has remained consistent despite being challenged. For example, "Despite the economic downturn, the company has been holding strong."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

53 human-written examples

Sales are holding strong.

The New York Times - Magazine

"Our struggle is in holding strong.

The New York Times

So far, though, the script is holding strong.

The New York Times - Sports

In spite of holding strong impressions, Kazan was surprisingly pliable.

The Guardian - Film

"The problem is holding strong while you find your audience".

The New York Times

Meb Keflezighi was holding strong, but ditched his orange skull cap.

The New York Times

Elsewhere, for now, the Ukrainian military appeared to be holding strong.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

(His restraint has held strong.

The New Yorker

Our bonds hold strong.

The New York Times

Sexwale holds strong political credentials.

The Guardian - Sport

The Cards' defence holds strong however.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "holding strong" to describe situations where something is maintaining its position or status despite facing challenges or opposition. For example, "The company's stock is holding strong despite market volatility."

Common error

Avoid using "holding strong" when describing situations that require active improvement or growth. It's best suited for scenarios where maintaining the current state is the primary goal, not progressing beyond it.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "holding strong" functions as a verb phrase, often used to describe the action of maintaining a stable or consistent state despite external pressures. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage. It acts as a descriptive predicate, adding information about the subject's current condition.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

82%

Science

9%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "holding strong" is a grammatically sound and frequently used verb phrase that describes the act of maintaining a stable state despite challenges. Ludwig AI validates its usage across diverse contexts, primarily within news and media. The phrase conveys resilience and persistence. While suitable for both formal and informal settings, it's most commonly found in professional and journalistic contexts. Consider its intent to convey stability when incorporating it into your writing and also be aware of alternatives like "standing firm" or "remaining stable" to provide nuance. The phrase's prevalence underscores its effectiveness in communicating the enduring nature of a subject in the face of adversity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

standing firm

Suggests a resolute and unyielding stance, closely related but emphasizes resistance to pressure.

remaining stable

Similar to maintaining stability, but places more emphasis on its condition.

withstanding pressure

Specifically addresses the ability to endure strain or opposition, adding an element of challenge.

remaining resilient

Emphasizes the ability to recover quickly from difficulties, focusing on the aspect of bouncing back.

staying steadfast

Highlights unwavering commitment and loyalty, differing slightly in its focus on dedication.

maintaining stability

Focuses on keeping a consistent state or position, emphasizing steadiness over active resistance.

persevering

Highlights the act of continuing despite difficulties, emphasizing effort over current state.

enduring

Focuses on the ability to last or survive over a long period, emphasizing longevity.

keeping up the pace

Focuses on maintaining speed or progress, less about resistance and more about consistent effort.

keeping afloat

Implies surviving difficult circumstances, often with financial or existential undertones, which adds the idea of difficulty.

FAQs

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

You can use "holding strong" to describe something that is maintaining its position or status despite facing challenges. For example, "Despite the competition, our sales are "holding strong"."

What are some alternatives to "holding strong"?

Some alternatives to "holding strong" include "standing firm", "remaining stable", or "withstanding pressure", depending on the specific context.

Is "holding strong" formal or informal?

"Holding strong" is generally considered a neutral expression, suitable for both formal and informal contexts, but is most often found in news and media.

What does it mean when something is "holding strong"?

When something is "holding strong", it means that it is maintaining its position, level, or status despite facing challenges, opposition, or negative influences. It suggests resilience and stability.