persistent holdup

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "persistent holdup" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where there is a continuous or ongoing delay or obstruction. Example: "The project faced a persistent holdup due to supply chain issues, causing frustration among the team members."

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

Was the supertax a charity benefit or a holdup?

The New Yorker

The holdup?

The New York Times - Arts

What is the holdup?

The New York Times

What's the Holdup?

The New York Times

Esto Es Holdup?

The New York Times

What's the holdup, huh?

The New Yorker

That has been the holdup.

MIT Technology Review

And what was the holdup?

The New York Times

That's what the holdup has been.

The New York Times

ADJECTIVE Persistent.

The New York Times - Sports

I didn't cause a holdup.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "persistent holdup", ensure the context clearly indicates a delay or obstruction that is both ongoing and significant. Specify the cause or nature of the "holdup" to provide clarity and avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "persistent holdup" when a simple delay or inconvenience is meant. The term implies a substantial and potentially problematic obstruction, not just a minor setback.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "persistent holdup" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "persistent" modifies the noun "holdup". Although Ludwig shows examples of its usage, they are not particularly frequent.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

Science

0%

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Science

0%

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "persistent holdup" is a grammatically correct phrase used to describe an ongoing delay or obstruction. While Ludwig identifies the phrase as usable, it appears to be relatively uncommon, highlighting the importance of clear context to avoid ambiguity. Related phrases such as "ongoing delay" or "continuous obstruction" may serve as alternatives depending on the desired level of formality and emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

ongoing delay

Focuses on the continuous nature of the delay, omitting the potential for obstruction implied by "holdup".

continuous obstruction

Highlights the ongoing blockage, replacing the more specific connotation of "holdup" with a general term.

protracted delay

Emphasizes the length of the delay rather than the reason behind it.

sustained interruption

Indicates a prolonged break or disruption, less specific than a "holdup".

unrelenting impediment

Focuses on the persistent and obstructive nature of the barrier, differing in intensity and word choice.

chronic setback

Highlights the recurring or habitual nature of the obstacle, implying a pattern of hindrance.

lingering disruption

Implies a disturbance that remains for an extended period, lacking the connotation of malicious interference.

repeated obstruction

Highlights the recurrence of the blockage, shifting the focus from persistence to repetition.

constant hindrance

Emphasizes the continuous disruptive action of the impediment.

enduring stagnation

Describes a prolonged state of inactivity or lack of progress, a more general term than "holdup".

FAQs

How can I use "persistent holdup" in a sentence?

You can use "persistent holdup" to describe an ongoing delay or obstruction, such as: "The project faced a "persistent holdup" due to supply chain issues, causing frustration among the team members."

What are some alternatives to "persistent holdup"?

Some alternatives to "persistent holdup" include "ongoing delay", "continuous obstruction", or "protracted delay".

What's the difference between "persistent holdup" and "temporary delay"?

"Persistent holdup" implies a long-lasting or recurring obstruction, while "temporary delay" suggests a short-term postponement.

Is "persistent holdup" appropriate for formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "persistent holdup" may be less common in formal writing. Consider using more formal alternatives like "sustained interruption" or "unrelenting impediment" for a more professional tone.