hold water

Cultural  

1. To seem logical and consistent: “At first I was persuaded by the politician's speech, but upon reflection, I decided her arguments didn't hold water.”

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hold water Idioms  

1. Stand up to critical examination, be sound and valid, as in This argument just won't hold water, or Her reasons for quitting don't hold water. This metaphoric expression alludes to a container that can hold water without leaking. [c. 1600]

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Example Sentences

"There is little doubt that, in any case, the justification of an imminent attack on the US does not hold water," he added.

From Barron's

"They do an amazing job for nature, they eat grubs in the soil, they turn over the soil, they help soils drain and hold water".

From BBC

When the city tried to refill the pool, workers found that it no longer held water.

From Los Angeles Times

I watched them like a hawk to see if Dad’s theory held water and they were both sweet on Tansy.

From Literature

A landslide would dam Spirit Lake and hold water in, not create a surge out.

From Literature

Related Words

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