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Region: General | Usage example: We need to hold the line on quality standards.

Hold the line

Meaning

Maintain a position or standard.

Usage

Used when resisting pressure to change principles.

Origin & History

Origins and dates here are approximate summaries. Many idioms have disputed or unknown origins, and not every date has been checked against a historical dictionary, so treat specific dates and stories as a starting point rather than a citation.

Military command to keep defensive line from breaking.

Used in warfare commentary long before moving into corporate speech.

Related Idioms

Hold your own

Maintain one's position or perform equally with others.

Hold the fort

Maintain a position temporarily.

Walk the line

Maintain discipline or adhere to rules.

More Idioms

Break the ice

To do or say something to relieve tension or get conversation going in a social situation.

Cut to the chase

Skip ahead to the most important or exciting part of something.

The ball is in your court

It is now your turn to take action or make a decision.

Throw in the towel

To concede defeat or admit a struggle isn't worth continuing.