Which sentence uses 'come across' correctly?

I came across an old photo while cleaning the attic

I came across the street to meet you

I came across an old photo while cleaning the attic

The bridge came across the river

Which sentence uses 'come across' correctly?

She comes across as very confident in interviews

He came across the finish line first

Which sentence uses 'come by' correctly?

Good jobs are hard to come by these days

The bus will come by this route

Good jobs are hard to come by these days

I come by the office every morning at 8

Which sentence uses 'come by' correctly?

Can you come by my house later for coffee?

The train came by the station too fast

She comes by the grocery store home

Which sentence uses 'come out' correctly?

The new iPhone will come out next month

I need to come out from the house now

The new iPhone will come out next month

Which sentence uses 'come out' correctly?

The truth finally came out after the investigation

The students came out to the classroom

Understanding the Phrasal Verb 'Hold Onto'

📖 Definition

To 'hold onto' means to keep a firm grip on something physically or mentally, maintaining possession, belief, or emotion strongly despite challenges.

Examples in context

She held onto her core values in the face of adversity.
The children held onto their toys during the long flight.
Despite the challenges, they held onto their vision for the future.

📖 Definition

To 'hold onto' means to keep a firm grip on something physically or mentally, maintaining possession, belief, or emotion strongly despite challenges.

📝 Grammar Info

Separable

You cannot separate the verb and preposition.

Neutral

Suitable for both spoken and written contexts without formality constraints.

Transitive

Yes

Requires a direct object to convey complete meaning.

📊 Conjugation Table

Tense	Form	Example
Present Simple	hold onto	I hold onto my grandmother's advice every day.
Past Simple	held onto	She held onto the old photograph for years.
Present Continuous	holding onto	They are holding onto their dreams despite setbacks.
Present Perfect	have held onto	We have held onto these traditions for centuries.

💡 When to Use

Maintaining beliefs

Use when someone stubbornly maintains their beliefs despite challenges or skepticism.

Example: "He held onto his faith, even when others doubted."

Preserving possessions

Use when discussing physical possession that is being cared for or protected.

Example: "She held onto her late mother's necklace as a keepsake."

Emotional support

Use when describing emotional support or strength that aids during hard times.

Example: "They held onto each other during difficult careers."

⚠️ Common Mistakes

Incorrect separation

❌ Wrong: Hold the faith onto.

✅ Correct: Hold onto the faith.

💡 Tip: Remember not to separate the verb phrases.

Incorrect preposition

❌ Wrong: Hold in the hope.

✅ Correct: Hold onto the hope.

💡 Tip: Use 'onto' to correctly link.

Omitter of object

❌ Wrong: Hold onto.

✅ Correct: Hold onto the idea.

💡 Tip: Always include a direct object.

Practice

HOLD ONTO - IN PRACTICE

Study Method Proposal

Listen and repeat the audio as many times as needed to improve your pronunciation
Use the audio as a dictation exercise, trying to write what you hear and understand
Create a new sentence following the structure of the example sentences

Examples in Context

1
Listen to example

She held onto her core values in the face of adversity.
How National Parks Came to Be
2
Listen to example

The children held onto their toys during the long flight.
How to Become a Hiker
3
Listen to example

Despite the challenges, they held onto their vision for the future.
Bringing Animals Back to Life

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

cling to grasp

Antonyms

let go of

Quick Check

Complete the sentence with the correct phrasal verb:

"During the storm, the sailor had to ___ onto the mast."

hold in

hold onto

hold into

hold above

"Hold onto your principles, for they guide you in the stormy seas of life, anchoring your spirit amid chaos and change."

In Context

In the winter of 1940, as the world plunged deeper into the chaos of World War II, Winston Churchill exemplified a leader's resilience. Britain's survival was at stake, and Churchill, newly appointed as Prime Minister, urged his nation to hold onto hope and perseverance. Facing relentless bombing raids by the German Luftwaffe, the British public was weary, and confidence in victory seemed to wane. Yet, in his stirring speeches, Churchill continually reminded them to hold onto the belief in eventual triumph. As the Battle of Britain unfolded, the Royal Air Force, outnumbered but undeterred, held onto every advantage, turning the tide of the war. The resilience of the British people became legendary, proving that holding onto faith in one's cause could indeed change the course of history. By the end of 1940, Britain remained unbroken, a testament to the unwavering spirit of its people and their leader who inspired them to hold onto hope against all odds.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions about Hold Onto

What is the origin of hold onto?

The idiom 'hold onto' traces back to the 18th century, reflecting a nautical background, emphasizing maintaining grip amid turbulent seas.

Can hold onto be used in formal and informal contexts?

Yes, 'hold onto' suits both contexts. It's broadly applicable, expressing emotional or physical maintenance without tone constraints.

What is the difference between hold onto and cling to?

'Hold onto' implies a firm grip physically or mentally. 'Cling to' often conveys desperation or a more emotional attachment.

Browse All National Parks Phrasal Verbs

About the Author

Alessandra Nóbrega

History teacher who fell in love with English! This passion led me to specialize in languages and work on bilingual education projects. With 37 years in education, I believe learning should be meaningful – not just memorization.

Learn more about my journey

📖 Definition

📖 Definition

📝 Grammar Info

📊 Conjugation Table

💡 When to Use

⚠️ Common Mistakes

HOLD ONTO - IN PRACTICE

Study Method Proposal

Examples in Context

Synonyms & Antonyms

Quick Check

In Context

❓ Frequently Asked Questions about Hold Onto

Related Phrasal Verbs

Alessandra Nóbrega