How to Say "Hold" in French: Explanation, Examples, and More

Explanation of Forms

The word "hold" can be translated into French in several ways, depending on the context in which it is used. Here are the most common translations: 1. Garder: This is the most common translation for "hold" in the sense of keeping something in one's possession or not letting go of it. 2. Maintenir: This translation is used when "hold" refers to maintaining something, such as a position or a situation. 3. Tenir: This is another common translation for "hold" in the sense of keeping something in one's hands or arms.

Examples of Usage

1. Garder: - "Gardez ce livre pour moi, s'il vous plaît." (Please hold this book for me.) - "Je dois garder mon calendrier à jour pour ne pas oublier les rendez-vous." (I have to hold my calendar up to date to not miss appointments.) 2. Maintenir: - "Il est important de maintenir une bonne hygiène pour prévenir les maladies." (It is important to maintain good hygiene to prevent diseases.) - "Nous devons maintenir notre confiance dans le processus démocratique." (We have to maintain our trust in the democratic process.) 3. Tenir: - "Tiens, regarde ce nouveau film que j'ai vu hier soir." (Here, hold, in the sense of watching something.) - "Elle tient son enfant dans ses bras tout le temps qu'il dort." (She holds her child in her arms all the time while it sleeps.)

Notes on Usage

It is important to note that the translation of "hold" in French depends on the context in which it is used. Make sure to choose the appropriate translation based on the meaning you want to convey.

Word Origin

The word "hold" comes from the Old English "haldan," which means "to grasp, seize, or keep." The French translations "garder," "maintenir," and "tenir" all have similar origins, with "garder" coming from the Old French "garder," "maintenir" from "maintenir," and "tenir" from "tenir."

Additional Variations

There are a few other translations for "hold" in French, such as "s'emparer" (to seize or grab) and "s'accrocher" (to hang on or cling). These translations are less common and are used in specific contexts.