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

"Metabolic signals shape whether neurons hold the line or begin to break down."

From Science Daily • Jan. 27, 2026

Businesses are expected to hold the line until they get a better sense of whether the economy shows more improvement.

From MarketWatch • Jan. 10, 2026

It remains to be seen whether a weakened regime, battered by war and sanctions and led by an uncertain cadre, can hold the line.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 8, 2026

That is the story we tell, and it’s what we can do to hold the line right now.

From Slate • Nov. 21, 2025

For the remainder of 1917, French troops would hold the line against enemy attacks.

From "The War to End All Wars: World War I" by Russell Freedman