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

While they have held the line defending sports markets, the prediction markets seem to recognize the reputational threat that insider trading poses.

From Barron's

TOKYO—The Bank of Japan kept policy settings steady on Thursday, holding the line against an uncertain backdrop of conflict in the Middle East and volatile energy markets.

From The Wall Street Journal

U.S. benchmarks are weaker, but still holding the line.

From Barron's

However, consumer advocates argued the agreement held the line on even higher increases and halted further policy cancellations that have deepened a crisis in the state’s insurance industry.

From Los Angeles Times

Companies typically raise prices at the start of the new year and some have chosen to do so after holding the line for months, in part due to tariffs.

From The Wall Street Journal