Hold sth up as sth Meaning / Examples / How to Use

What Does “Hold sth up as sth” Mean?

“Hold something up as something” means to present or show something as a good example or a model to follow.

Introduction

The phrase “Hold sth up as sth” is commonly used in English to describe the act of using a person, idea, or thing as a positive example for others. When someone holds something up as something, they are highlighting its value or importance, often to encourage others to imitate or admire it. Understanding the “Hold sth up as sth” meaning helps you recognize when people praise or promote examples in conversations or writing. This phrase is useful in both formal and informal contexts, making it a versatile expression to add to your vocabulary.

Quick Info Box

• Phrasal verb: hold something up as something
• Type: transitive
• Level: B2
• Short meaning: to use something as a good example or model

Structure (Grammar Rules)

“Hold sth up as sth” is a separable phrasal verb. You can place the object between “hold” and “up,” or after “up.”

• Hold something up as something
• Hold up something as something

Examples:

• They hold their teacher up as a role model.
• They hold up their teacher as a role model.

How to Use “Hold sth up as sth”?

You use “hold sth up as sth” when you want to show that someone or something is a good example. It often appears in discussions about behavior, achievements, or standards. For example, a company might hold up a successful employee as proof of hard work. This phrase helps emphasize admiration or respect for the subject.

Examples

Imagine a teacher talking about her students. She might say:

• We hold Sarah up as an example of dedication and kindness.
• The charity holds up its volunteers as heroes in the community.
• Many people hold up her career as proof that hard work pays off.
• During the meeting, the manager held up the successful project as a model for future work.
• He is often held up as a symbol of courage and determination.

These examples show how the phrase highlights something positive to inspire others.

Common Mistakes

It’s easy to confuse “hold sth up as sth” with similar phrases. For example, some learners say “hold up as something” without an object, which is incorrect.

• Incorrect: They hold up as a good example.
• Correct: They hold up their actions as a good example.

Also, avoid mixing it with “hold up” meaning to delay or rob, which changes the meaning completely.

Differences / Synonyms

Similar phrases include “set up as,” “put forward as,” and “use as an example.” However, “hold up as” specifically emphasizes admiration or praise.

• Set up as: often means to arrange or establish something, not always praising.
• Put forward as: means to suggest or propose something.
• Use as an example: is very close in meaning but less idiomatic.

“Hold up as” usually carries a stronger positive meaning, implying respect or high regard.

Common Collocations

When using “hold sth up as sth,” some common objects and complements include:

• Example: to show as a model of behavior
• Role model: a person admired for good qualities
• Symbol: something that represents an idea or quality
• Standard: a level of quality or achievement
• Proof: evidence that supports a claim

Related Phrasal Verbs

Here are related phrasal verbs of hold sth up as sth:

• Hold Sth Out
• Hold Sth Over Sb
• Hold Onto Sb
• Hold Out Sth
• Hold Out On Sb

Real-life Dialogue

Here is a short conversation using the phrase:

Anna: Did you hear about the new employee? They say she’s amazing.

Ben: Yes, the company holds her up as an example for everyone.

Anna: That’s inspiring! I want to work as hard as she does.

Practice

Choose the correct sentence that uses “hold up as” properly:

• a) They hold up as a great leader.
• b) They hold up the coach as a great leader.
• c) They hold as up a great leader.

Answer: b) They hold up the coach as a great leader.

FAQs

• Q: Can “hold up as” be used in negative contexts?
  A: Usually, it is used positively to praise or admire.
• Q: Is “hold sth up as sth” formal or informal?
  A: It is suitable for both formal and informal situations.
• Q: Can the object come between “hold” and “up”?
  A: Yes, the phrasal verb is separable.
• Q: What is the difference between “hold up as” and “hold up”?
  A: “Hold up as” means to praise; “hold up” alone can mean delay or rob.
• Q: Can you give another example?
  A: Sure! They hold up her success as proof that practice works.