Hold it Meaning in English

expression

US

ˈhoʊɫd/ /ˈɪt/, /ɪt

HOHLD-it

UK

hˈəʊld/ /ˈɪt

HOHLD-it

Definition

This can mean 'wait a moment' or 'stop,' especially to interrupt someone. It can also mean 'keep holding something' (physically).

Usage & Nuances

Informal, often used as an interjection to interrupt or pause a person or action. Can also be literal when asking someone to continue holding an object. Don't confuse with 'hold it together' (stay calm). Tone can be abrupt.

• Spanish: ¡espera! - ¡detente! - aguántalo
• Portuguese (BR): espera! - segura aí! - segure isso
• Portuguese (PT): espera! - segura aí! - segura isso
• Chinese (Simplified): 等一下！- 停一下！- 拿住它
• Chinese (Traditional): 等一下！- 停一下！- 拿住它
• Hindi: रुको! - संभालो इसे
• Arabic: انتظر! - أمسِكه
• Bengali: একটু দাঁড়াও - থামো - ধরে রাখো
• Russian: Погоди - Стой - Подержи
• Japanese: ちょっと待って - ストップ - 持ってて
• Vietnamese: Khoan đã - Đợi chút - Giữ nó
• Korean: 잠깐만 - 멈춰 - 잡고 있어
• Turkish: Bir dakika - Dur - Tut
• Urdu: رکو - تھامو - پکڑے رہو
• Indonesian: tunggu dulu - tahan - pegang

Example Sentences

"Hold it! You can't go in there."

basic

Can you hold it for a minute while I tie my shoe?

basic

Please hold it right there.

basic

Whoa, hold it—what are you about to say?

natural

"Hold it—I think you dropped your wallet."

natural

Could you hold it steady so I can take a picture?

natural