handhold
/'hændhould/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Noun:
- A secure grip or support for the hand: A handhold is a physical feature or object that provides a place to grasp with the hand, especially for support, stability, or while climbing.
- A means of support or assurance: In a figurative sense, a handhold can refer to something that provides psychological or emotional security in a difficult situation.
Usage and Examples
- Noun (Physical grip):
- The climber searched for a solid handhold on the rock face.
- The staircase lacked a proper railing, offering no safe handhold.
- Noun (Figurative support):
- In the confusing new job, her mentor was a crucial handhold.
- The old traditions provided a cultural handhold in a rapidly changing world.
Advanced Usage
- "to find/get a handhold": To find a point of physical or metaphorical support.
- The company struggled to find a handhold in the competitive market.
- "to lose one's handhold": To lose one's grip, either physically or figuratively.
- When her main supporter left, she felt she had lost her handhold.
Variants and Related Words
- Handhold is primarily used as a noun. The related verb is to hold.
- Handgrip (n): A handle or something designed to be held in the hand. (More specific to designed objects).
- Foothold (n): A secure position for the feet, often used in similar climbing or competitive contexts.
Synonyms
- Grip
- Hold
- Support
- Handgrip
- Anchorage (figurative)
Antonyms
- Slippery surface
- Precipice (as a lack of support)
- Instability
Related Phrases and Compounds
- Hand-holding (n): The act of providing someone with careful guidance or reassurance, often considered excessive.
- The software is intuitive and doesn't require much hand-holding.
- Hand over hand (adv): A method of climbing or pulling by alternating handholds.
- He pulled himself up the rope hand over hand.