Hold on to something and hold something

Question

Hi,Can you explain the differences between hold on to something and hold something?Hold on to the rope, lest you will fall into the valley.Hold the rope, lest you will fall into the valley.He held on to the rail firmly as the ship rocked violently.He held the rail firmly as the ship rocked violently.Are they used correctly in the sentences above? Are there some differences?Thanks

Mister Micawber · Accepted Answer

I see no real difference in those statements' meanings.  'On to' merely emphasizes the firmness and duration of the grasp.

Stephenlearner · Answer

Thank you very much.

CalifJim · Answer

stephenlearnerhold on to something and hold something?

Generally speaking, you hold on to something to prevent yourself from falling or to prevent yourself from losing your balance. But you also hold on to something so that it cannot escape your grasp or so that you will not accidentally lose it. On the other hand, you hold something in your hand or hands just by having it there and effortlessly supporting it.

When the earthquake struck, I found myself holding on to the desk where I was sitting.
When she came home that day, she was surprised to see her father holding a puppy.
Here are the tickets. Hold on to them until we get to the theater.
The teacher is holding a book in his hand.

CJ

Stephenlearner · Answer

Thank you very much for your explanation, Jim.

Hold on to something and hold something

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