hold forth
Definition
Verb: - To speak at length and in a formal or authoritative manner about a particular topic; to expound or declaim.
Usage
This verb is typically used to describe the action of someone, often in a public or group setting, speaking for an extended period about their views or knowledge on a subject. It can sometimes carry a slightly negative connotation of speaking in a pompous, lecturing, or overly long-winded way.
Examples
Advanced Usage
- "to hold forth on/upon/about something": This is the standard construction. The preposition indicates the topic of the lengthy speech.
- She held forth upon the virtues of traditional craftsmanship.
Variants and Related Words
- Hold (verb): To have or keep in one's grasp. (Note: This is the base verb, but "hold forth" is a distinct phrasal verb with a separate meaning.)
- Forth (adverb): Forward in time, place, or order; out into view.
Synonyms
- Expatiate: To speak or write at length or in detail.
- Pontificate: To express one's opinions in a way considered annoyingly pompous and dogmatic.
- Expatiate: To speak or write at length or in detail.
- Discourse: To speak or write authoritatively about a topic.
- Lecture: To deliver an educational talk, or to talk to someone in a critical or lengthy way.
Related Phrasal Verbs
- Hold back: To hesitate or restrain oneself.
- Hold on: To wait, or to grip something firmly.
- Hold up: To delay, or to rob using threats.
Related Idioms
- Hold court: To be the center of attention in a social gathering, often while talking. (This is closely related in meaning to "hold forth.")
- At the party, the famous author held court in the library, surrounded by admirers.
Verb
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talk at length and formally about a topic
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The speaker dissertated about the social politics in 18th century England
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