hold water
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Verb phrase: - To be logical, sound, or valid; to withstand scrutiny or criticism. It describes an argument, theory, or excuse that is coherent and has no obvious flaws.
Usage
- This phrase is almost exclusively used in negative or interrogative constructions to express doubt about the validity of a statement.
- It is typically used with abstract subjects like "idea," "theory," "argument," "excuse," or "alibi."
Examples
Advanced Usage
- "to hold no water": A common variant meaning to be completely invalid or illogical.
- The politician's promises held no water with the skeptical public.
Variants and Related Words
- Hold up (phrasal verb): To remain strong or in good condition; to withstand examination. While similar, "hold up" can be used more broadly for physical objects and situations.
- The old bridge continues to hold up under heavy traffic.
- How will your story hold up in court?
Synonyms
- Be valid: To be logically or factually sound.
- Be sound: To be based on valid reasoning or evidence.
- Withstand scrutiny: To endure careful and critical examination.
- Ring true: To seem genuine or believable.
Related Idioms
- Watertight (adj): Often used to describe an argument or case that is flawless and cannot be disproven or criticized.
- The lawyer built a watertight case.
- Doesn't wash (idiom): An informal synonym meaning an excuse or story is not believable or acceptable.
- Your explanation for being late just doesn't wash.
Verb
- resist or withstand wear, criticism, etc.
- Her shoes won't hold up
- This theory won't hold water