16 Other Ways to Say HOLD | Hold Synonyms (Examples)

You often find yourself needing a different word for “hold,” whether in writing or speaking. Words like grasp, clutch, or carry can make your sentences more interesting and precise. Choosing the right synonym helps show exactly what kind of holding you mean. In this article, we will explore 16 other ways to say HOLD with clear examples.

16 Different Ways to Say HOLD: Another Word for HOLD

Grasp

Grasp is a strong synonym for HOLD because it shows both physical and mental control. You can grasp an object tightly with your hands or grasp a concept in your mind. It is useful when you want to emphasize understanding or firm control. People often use it in learning, explaining, or catching something securely. Grasp is slightly stronger than just holding and gives more energy to your sentence. It works well in formal and informal situations.

• He grasped the rope before it fell.
• She quickly grasped the meaning of the instructions.
• I grasped his hand to stop him from falling.

Clutch

Clutch conveys holding something tightly, often because of fear, excitement, or urgency. It shows an emotional or urgent tone, making it perfect for storytelling or dramatic writing. You clutch an object to keep it from slipping or to protect it. It is slightly more intense than HOLD and gives a vivid image. You can use it for hands, objects, or even abstract things like hope or opportunity.

• She clutched her bag as she ran through the crowd.
• He clutched the letter with tears in his eyes.
• The child clutched his toy tightly.

Grip

Grip is similar to clutch and grasp but focuses more on the power or strength of your hold. You can grip a handle, a bat, or someone’s hand. Grip also works figuratively, like having a grip on a situation. It shows control, safety, and confidence in the action. Use it when you want to highlight strength, steadiness, or firm control. Grip often gives more physical or emotional emphasis than HOLD.

• She gripped the railing as she climbed the stairs.
• He gripped the steering wheel tightly during the storm.
• I had to grip his arm to keep him from falling.

Carry

Carry is used when you HOLD something while moving it from one place to another. It can refer to objects, ideas, or responsibilities. Carry emphasizes both the act of holding and transporting. It is a versatile synonym because it works in casual and professional contexts. Carrying shows purpose and action, rather than just holding passively. You often use it when discussing work, movement, or burden.

• She carried the groceries into the kitchen.
• He carries a lot of responsibility at work.
• I carried the box up the stairs carefully.

Support

Support is a more abstract form of HOLD. It can be physical, like supporting a friend or an object, or emotional, like supporting someone through hard times. Support shows care, strength, and stability. Unlike HOLD, it emphasizes helping or keeping something upright rather than just holding it. It works well in personal, emotional, or professional contexts. Support gives a gentle, caring tone.

• He supported the old bookshelf while I fixed it.
• She always supports her friends in difficult times.
• The bridge supports heavy traffic every day.

Embrace

Embrace is holding someone or something with affection or acceptance. It is softer than HOLD and shows warmth or love. You can embrace a person, an idea, or a challenge. Embrace adds emotional depth to your sentences. It works in personal, inspirational, and poetic contexts. Use it when you want to show closeness, acceptance, or protection.

• She embraced her friend after a long time.
• He embraced the new opportunity without fear.
• They embraced the baby tightly.

Clasp

Clasp is holding something tightly with hands or fingers. It is more formal or detailed than HOLD and often describes jewelry, hands, or small objects. Clasp suggests careful, deliberate holding. It is good for writing that needs precision or detail. You can also use it figuratively, like clasping an idea or hope. Clasp gives elegance and control to your sentence.

• She clasped her necklace carefully.
• He clasped her hand during the ceremony.
• I clasped the envelope before mailing it.

Hug

Hug is holding someone closely with affection. It is a warm, emotional type of HOLD. Hug conveys care, comfort, and love. It is perfect for personal and emotional contexts. Hug emphasizes the bond between people rather than just the physical act. Use it when you want to show closeness, safety, or affection in writing.

• She hugged her brother after the long trip.
• I hugged my dog when I felt lonely.
• They hugged each other tightly in excitement.

Fasten

Fasten is holding something in place securely, usually with a device like a button, strap, or lock. It emphasizes safety and stability rather than casual holding. Fasten works well for objects, clothes, and safety equipment. It gives a precise and practical sense to your writing. Use it when you want to show attachment or secure holding.

• She fastened her seatbelt before driving.
• He fastened the lid on the box.
• I fastened the gate to keep the dog inside.

Squeeze

Squeeze is holding something firmly, often with pressure. It can show excitement, urgency, or control. Squeeze emphasizes the intensity of the hold and is more dynamic than HOLD. It is useful for objects, people, or abstract feelings like opportunity or stress. It adds action and energy to your sentence.

• She squeezed the lemon to get juice.
• He squeezed his friend’s hand in support.
• I squeezed the stress ball to relax.

Retain

Retain is holding or keeping something over time. Unlike HOLD, it often refers to memory, rights, or possessions. Retain emphasizes preservation and careful maintenance. It is suitable for professional, educational, or formal contexts. Using retain shows responsibility and awareness of what is being held. It works well for both tangible and intangible things.

• He retained all his old documents carefully.
• The company retained top employees during the crisis.
• I retained the knowledge I learned from the class.

Maintain

Maintain is holding or keeping something in a steady condition. It is similar to retain but emphasizes ongoing effort. Maintain works for objects, relationships, or situations. It shows active care and attention rather than passive holding. This synonym adds clarity and responsibility to your writing. It is often used in practical or professional contexts.

• She maintained the garden beautifully.
• He maintains a calm attitude under pressure.
• I maintained the house to keep it clean.

Detain

Detain is holding someone temporarily, usually by authority or necessity. It is formal and often used in legal or official contexts. Detain emphasizes restriction and control rather than casual holding. It works well when describing law enforcement, delays, or responsibilities. Using detain adds seriousness and precision to your writing.

• The police detained the suspect for questioning.
• Bad weather detained our train for hours.
• He was detained at the airport due to a security check.

Carry On

Carry on means to hold a task or action over time. It is a figurative way of HOLD, emphasizing continuation rather than physical grasp. Carry on shows persistence, effort, and dedication. It is useful in professional and personal contexts where ongoing work or activity is involved. It adds motivation and action to your sentences.

• She carried on with her studies despite challenges.
• He carried on the family tradition proudly.
• I carried on working even when tired.

Keep

Keep is a simple and versatile synonym for HOLD. It emphasizes possession, protection, or continued control. Keep can refer to objects, promises, or abstract ideas. It works in almost any context, making it very practical. Keep adds clarity and ease to writing while still showing control or responsibility. It is one of the most widely used alternatives for HOLD.

• She kept the keys in her pocket.
• He kept his promise to his friend.
• I kept the documents safe on the shelf.

Table of Synonyms for HOLD

Final Thoughts

I hope this guide helps you find the perfect word to replace HOLD in your writing or speech. Using synonyms like grasp, clutch, or maintain makes your sentences clearer, more engaging, and precise. These words also allow you to show action, care, or control more effectively. Try using them in your daily communication to make your writing lively and expressive. With practice, choosing the right word will become easier.