holds good

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "holds good" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It is typically used to indicate that something (an idea, statement, prediction, etc.) remains true or valid. It can be used in a variety of contexts, but it is most commonly used to express a belief or opinion. Example: Despite the challenges, I believe that the saying "hard work pays off" still holds good in today's world.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

This principle still holds good.

The Guardian - Opinion

This holds good for all new ideas.

The New York Times

It even holds good for thrillers.

The Guardian

The challenge holds good more than four centuries on.

Independent

The same holds good for the majority of medieval texts.

Encyclopedia Britannica

This holds good, incidentally, whether the body is actually his or not.

Independent

The dual commandment holds good: to love God and to love neighbour (Matthew 22 37 39).

Encyclopedia Britannica

Following the World Trade Centre attacks, I am more convinced than ever that this holds good.

The Guardian

This principle has stood the test of time for millennia and still holds good today.

The Guardian

But, according to Roper, this is one dotcom idea that still holds good.

The Guardian - Tech

The previous, cosy assumption of defence experts that some time must elapse between testing and deployment no longer holds good.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "holds good" to affirm the continuing validity or relevance of an idea, principle, or statement, especially when contrasting it with changing circumstances. For instance, "Despite new technologies, the fundamental principle of supply and demand still "holds good".

Common error

While grammatically correct, "holds good" can sound somewhat formal or old-fashioned in very casual conversations. Consider using simpler alternatives like "is still true" or "still applies" to maintain a more natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "holds good" functions as a predicate within a sentence, asserting the continued validity or applicability of a particular statement, idea, or principle. Ludwig AI confirms that this is a standard English expression.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Science

35%

Encyclopedias

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "holds good" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression in English to assert the continued validity or relevance of a statement, principle, or idea. As per Ludwig AI, it's suitable for a range of contexts, from news and media to scientific and academic writing. While considered generally neutral to formal, the register can lean towards formality, so simpler alternatives like "still applies" or "remains true" might be preferable in casual settings. The phrase is particularly valuable when emphasizing the endurance or resilience of a concept over time. Examples provided by Ludwig show its application across various fields, solidifying its role as a versatile tool for expressing enduring truth.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

remains valid

Focuses on the continued validity of something, emphasizing its sustained correctness.

still applies

Highlights the ongoing applicability of a rule, principle, or condition.

remains true

Emphasizes the continuing truthfulness or accuracy of a statement or belief.

is still relevant

Underscores the enduring relevance or importance of something in a current context.

continues to be the case

A more formal way of saying something is still true or applicable.

is still in effect

Highlights the ongoing operational or legal validity of a rule or law.

stands the test of time

Indicates that something has remained valid or useful over a long period.

is as valid as ever

Emphasizes that something is just as valid now as it was in the past.

remains in force

Focuses on the continued legal or official validity of something like a law or agreement.

is consistently accurate

Highlights the reliability and continued correctness of information or data.

FAQs

How can I use "holds good" in a sentence?

You can use "holds good" to indicate that something remains true, valid, or applicable. For example, "The principle of treating others as you want to be treated still "holds good" in modern society".

What are some alternatives to "holds good"?

Alternatives to "holds good" include "remains valid", "still applies", and "remains true". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is "holds good" formal or informal?

"Holds good" is generally considered somewhat formal. In very casual settings, simpler phrases like "is still true" might be more appropriate.

Which is correct, "holds good" or "held good"?

"Holds good" is the present tense form, used when the statement is currently true. "Held good" is the past tense form, used when the statement was true in the past but may not be now.