it holds up

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it holds up" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate that something remains valid, effective, or reliable over time or under scrutiny. Example: "After reviewing the research, I can confidently say that the theory still holds up despite new findings."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"If it holds up.

The New Yorker

It holds up.

The New Yorker

None of it holds up.

Independent

So it holds up.

The Guardian - Sport

I just hope it holds up".

The New York Times

Still think it holds up?

The Guardian - Film

I don't think it holds up".

The Guardian - Books

It holds up well on DVD, too.

The New York Times

The key phrase, everyone agrees, is "if it holds up".

The New York Times - Science

That may depend on how well it holds up.

The New York Times

"It's interesting if it holds up," Mr. Cook said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When evaluating the long-term viability of a theory or product, use "it holds up" to suggest that its core principles or functionality remain sound despite the passage of time or changing circumstances.

Common error

Avoid using "it holds up" when discussing purely hypothetical situations or future predictions that haven't been tested or proven yet. Use alternative phrases like "it might hold up" or "it could hold up" to indicate uncertainty.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it holds up" functions as a phrasal verb, typically used intransitively. It describes the ability of something to remain valid, effective, or stable over a period. As demonstrated by Ludwig, the phrase is commonly employed in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

77%

Science

12%

Wiki

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

1%

Academia

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrasal verb "it holds up" is a versatile expression used to describe the enduring validity, effectiveness, or stability of something over time. Ludwig confirms that it is grammatically sound and widely used, particularly in news and media contexts. While generally neutral in tone, avoid using it in purely hypothetical situations. Alternatives like "it stands the test of time" can offer nuanced variations in meaning. Ludwig's examples highlight its prevalence in assessing the longevity and resilience of various subjects, from theories to products.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it stands the test of time

Focuses on the ability to remain relevant and valuable over a long period.

it remains valid

Emphasizes the continued correctness or accuracy of something.

it proves durable

Highlights the resilience and ability to withstand wear and tear.

it withstands scrutiny

Focuses on the ability to maintain its integrity when closely examined.

it has staying power

Implies a continued ability to attract or maintain interest or support.

it endures

Stresses the capacity to last or suffer patiently.

it is still effective

Highlights the ongoing usefulness or success of something.

it maintains relevance

Emphasizes the continued importance or applicability of something.

it has lasting value

Focuses on the enduring worth or significance of something.

it survives intact

Highlights that something exists without damage or missing parts

FAQs

How can I use "it holds up" in a sentence?

Use "it holds up" to describe something that remains valid, effective, or reliable over time. For example, "The classic novel still holds up despite changing literary trends."

What does it mean when something "holds up"?

When something "holds up", it means it continues to be strong, valid, or effective despite challenges, time, or scrutiny. It implies resilience and lasting quality.

What can I say instead of "it holds up"?

You can use alternatives like "it stands the test of time", "it remains valid", or "it proves durable depending on the context.

Is "it holds up" formal or informal language?

"It holds up" is generally considered neutral language suitable for both formal and informal contexts, as evidenced by its use in news articles and everyday conversations.