hold the line

Idioms  

1. Maintain the existing position or state of affairs. For example, We'll have to hold the line on spending until our profits rise. This term alludes to former military tactics, in which a line of troops was supposed to prevent an enemy breakthrough. Eventually, it was transferred to civilian enterprises. [Mid-1900s]

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Example Sentences

The court’s mini “Cuba docket” offers us unexpected insights about Justice Elena Kagan, the only justice to hold the line on both cases, including her first-ever solo dissent in her 16 years on the bench.

From Slate • Jul. 1, 2026

The team at the lab, "they hold the line, and we want them to, because ultimately, if we don't make safe products, we'll never sell reactors," she said.

From Barron's • Jun. 28, 2026

“We ask them to hold the line in final negotiations.”

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 9, 2026

"But I still have my integrity. To my former colleagues, continue to hold the line."

From BBC • Jun. 3, 2026

“Maybe if you hold the line it will change the luck.”

From "A Farewell To Arms" by Ernest Hemingway