put a hold on
Meaning(s)
1. delay or stop something from happening, place a restriction or reserve on something
Popularity
High
Professional
High
Social
How to Memorize
put a hold on the deal/book
Analysis
To put a hold on something means to prevent or stop something from happening or to delay something. If you put a hold on a project for example, it could mean to pause or delay it. This is a phrasal verb that is used in both social and professional contexts.
Social Examples (Advance)
- The bank messaged me to say that they are putting a hold on my account due to recent suspicious activity.
- I really wanted that book, so I asked the library to put a hold on it for me so no one else could take it out before I got there.
Professional Examples (Advance)
- We will have to put a hold on the deal until these legal complications have been ironed out.
- Our shaky financial situation means that we are putting a hold on hiring new employees for the time being.