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Words and Their StoriesLearning Expressions with VOA
Processed with VS1Compare two things, ask for a brief pause, and understand a refusal to work until terms improve.
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Source: VOA Learning English · Words and Their Stories
View original article & transcriptThe source explores expressions built with “hold.” This lesson focuses on a comparison, a polite request to wait, and a labor or sports negotiation. It avoids the threatening “hold up” robbery sense and does not use the source’s song lyrics.
Cultural note: “Can’t hold a candle to” comes with an outdated servant-based origin story in the source; the lesson teaches only its current meaning, “cannot compare,” without endorsing that hierarchy. “Hold out” may refer to organized labor action, which is a negotiation tactic rather than simply refusing to cooperate.
Keep exploring“Hold” can compare, pause a conversation, or describe a negotiation.
Phrase guide · 3 expressions
Original explanations and examples, created for learners. Save a card for later or hear the phrase spoken by your browser.
Say that one thing is not as good as another.
Meaning
Be much less good, capable, or impressive than someone or something else.
Tone & use
Informal comparison. It can sound dismissive, so use it when a strong contrast is intended.
Example
“The small neighborhood theater is charming, but its sound system can’t hold a candle to the concert hall’s.”
Ask someone to wait briefly while you check something.
Meaning
Wait for a short time.
Tone & use
Common in conversation and phone calls. “Could you hold on for a moment?” is more polite than a bare command.
Example
“Could you hold on while I check the room number?”
Describe a refusal to work or play until terms are addressed.
Meaning
Refuse to work, play, or agree until a demand or condition is addressed.
Tone & use
Often appears in sports and labor negotiations. The parties and their reasons matter; it is not automatically unreasonable behavior.
Example
“The players held out until the league agreed to discuss safer travel arrangements.”
Knowledge check
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