it holds weight

USAGE SUMMARY

This phrase is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it when you want to express that a particular statement or opinion is important or has significance. For example: "His opinion on the matter holds weight, so we should take it into consideration."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

Over the years, many researchers have studied the 10,000-step number to see whether it holds weight.

The Washington Post

It holds weight in later years..

Vice

You could fill the container with other pool toys to determine how it holds weight.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

For the most part, it still holds weight, but it isn't the catch-all it once was thanks to the proliferation of so many channels of communication, social sharing and the media's unquenchable thirst for something to report.

Forbes

It no longer holds weight.

Huffington Post

Five years after it was cancelled, "Arrested Development" remains relevant, and the brand still holds weight.

Huffington Post

"That's not what holds weight in my life".

Huffington Post

Though the ice caves were not a phenomenon unique to last year, it's only rarely that anchor ice builds up enough for explorers to venture out to see the caves for themselves (an activity that carries risk, as it's hard to judge the thickness of ice and whether it can hold weight).

Huffington Post

Advance it to holding weight bar behind the neck, resting on shoulders (with hands) while doing squats.

WikiHow

I have no idea if this method, in fact, has any clout -- and I doubt if it holds its weight in a court of law, but the concept at its core seems well thought out.

Huffington Post

But for those who will argue about the "authority of Scripture" it doesn't hold weight here because the Episcopal Church has always been challenged on this issue.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it holds weight", ensure the context clearly defines what "it" refers to. This provides clarity and avoids ambiguity in your writing.

Common error

Avoid overstating the influence or importance of something by using "it holds weight" when a more moderate phrase like "it is relevant" would be more accurate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it holds weight" functions as a predicate, asserting that a particular subject possesses importance or influence. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usage.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Wiki

22%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it holds weight" is a grammatically sound expression used to convey that something is significant, influential, or valid. Ludwig AI identifies the expression as correct. While its frequency is uncommon, it appears across diverse contexts, particularly in news and media. When using this phrase, clarity about the subject is crucial to avoid ambiguity. Alternatives like "it carries significance" or "it matters" can be used depending on the specific nuance you aim to convey. Therefore, its use is considered appropriate, though context-dependent.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it carries significance

Emphasizes the importance or meaningfulness of something, focusing on its inherent value.

it bears importance

Highlights the relevance and consequence of something, suggesting it has a notable impact.

it has merit

Indicates that something is worthy of praise or attention due to its good qualities.

it carries influence

Focuses on the power something has to affect or change things.

it possesses validity

Emphasizes the truthfulness or soundness of something.

it has consequence

Highlights the resulting effect or outcome of something.

it registers

Indicates that something makes an impression or is noticed.

it matters

A simpler way to convey that something is of importance or concern.

it is substantial

Emphasizes the large or considerable nature of something.

it counts

Suggests that something has value or contributes in a meaningful way.

FAQs

What does "it holds weight" mean in a sentence?

The phrase "it holds weight" means that something is important, influential, or has significance. It implies that the subject in question carries a certain level of importance or authority.

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

You can use alternatives like "it carries significance", "it has merit", or "it matters" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "it holds weight"?

It's appropriate when you want to emphasize the importance or influence of a statement, argument, or opinion. For example, "His testimony holds weight because he was an eyewitness".

Is "it holds weight" a formal or informal expression?

The phrase is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, though it leans towards neutral. More formal alternatives may exist, but "it holds weight" is generally acceptable in professional and academic writing.