is held up

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is held up" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something is delayed or obstructed, often in the context of time or progress. Example: "The project is held up due to unforeseen circumstances."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Academia

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

The farm bill is held up again.

The Guardian - Opinion

No one and no creed is held up to ridicule.

The New York Times - Books

A proposed American levy is held up in Congress.

The Economist

Play is held up as he receives treatment.

The Guardian - Sport

Cheryl Cole is held up as a role model.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

This design is clearly visible when the paper is held up to a light source.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Oku is a small box, which is held up to the skin to analyse it.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

Which city is holding up the works?

The New York Times - Arts

The continent is holding up well.

The Economist

The early summer tourist trade is holding up.

The New Yorker

So I know he is holding up.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing something being physically supported, ensure the context clarifies that the phrase refers to physical support, not a delay. For example, "The roof is held up by strong pillars."

Common error

Avoid using "is held up" when you mean to convey active support or endorsement. For instance, instead of saying "The leader is held up by the team", consider "The team supports the leader" to accurately reflect the active role.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is held up" functions as a passive verb phrase, indicating that the subject is experiencing a delay, obstruction, or being presented as an example. Ludwig's examples highlight its versatility in conveying these meanings across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Encyclopedias

10%

Science

8%

Less common in

Academia

6%

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "is held up" is a versatile passive verb construction used to describe delays, obstructions, or the act of presenting something as an example. Ludwig AI confirms that it is grammatically correct and widely used. Its frequency in news, encyclopedias, and scientific contexts underscores its neutrality and adaptability. While alternatives like "is delayed" or "is stalled" may be suitable depending on the specific nuance, understanding the dual meaning—delay versus exemplification—is crucial for effective communication. The high source quality and expert rating indicate that "is held up" is a reliable and well-regarded phrase in contemporary English.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is delayed

Replaces "held up" to indicate a postponement or slowing of progress.

is stalled

Indicates a complete stop or lack of movement.

is blocked

Suggests an obstruction preventing progress.

is impeded

Implies that something is hindering or slowing down progress.

is obstructed

Similar to 'blocked', but can also imply interference.

is detained

Suggests a temporary delay, often in a legal or official context.

is disrupted

Implies an interruption or disturbance affecting normal operations.

is suspended

Indicates a temporary cessation or postponement.

is retained

Suggests something is kept in place.

is supported

Suggests something is being kept upright or maintained.

FAQs

How can I use "is held up" in a sentence?

You can use "is held up" to indicate a delay or obstruction. For example, "The flight "is held up" due to bad weather" or "The negotiation "is held up" by disagreements".

What are some alternatives to "is held up"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "is delayed", "is stalled", or "is blocked".

When is it appropriate to use "is held up" versus "supports"?

"Is held up" indicates a delay or obstruction, while "supports" indicates endorsement or physical support. Use ""is held up"" when something is being delayed. Use "supports" when something is actively being helped or endorsed.

What does it mean when something "is held up" as an example?

When something ""is held up"" as an example, it means it is being presented as a model or standard to be followed. For example, "His work "is held up" as an example of excellence".