Meaning trap
hold up
support
To physically support or keep something in position so it does not fall.
Don't mix these meanings
Same phrase, different job.
To physically support or keep something in position so it does not fall.
Another meaning of 'hold up' is 'delay'; compare the examples to keep the meanings separate.
Hear it in context
Notice where the phrase sounds natural.
The old bridge is held up by strong steel cables.
Modern buildings are often held up by a steel frame, which makes them stronger and safer.
Fix the pattern
One small grammar move makes it sound right.
Not: What holds up it?
Say: What holds it up?
With a pronoun, the object goes in the middle — 'hold it up'.
Which sounds natural?
Tap the one a native speaker would say.
'Hold up' is the plain verb for physically supporting. 'Provide structural support for' is engineer-speak.
Build natural chunks
Words that usually travel with it.
hold up
- the roof
- the shelf
- your trousers
- the bridge
Don't confuse it
Related
Other meanings and phrases to compare.
- hold up (delay) — Another meaning of 'hold up' is 'delay'; compare the examples to keep the meanings separate.