Is it “ahold” or “a hold”?

“Ahold” vs. “a hold”

A simple space can make a huge difference when it comes to writing and spelling. It’s important to know when (and how) to use the word “ahold” or “a hold” in a sentence to strengthen your writing and provide clarity for your readers. Even many native English speakers still don’t know when to use “ahold” or “a hold” in a written sentence. Let’s look at the differences between the two.

The definition of “a hold”

“A hold” is a phrase that uses the indefinite article “a” and the noun “hold.” This phrase means to block, restrain, restrict, reserve, or get a grip on something. “A hold” can also be used in the context of reservations.

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“A hold” can have even more meanings. It can also describe having the upper hand or control over someone else mentally or emotionally.

“A hold” used in a sentence

Here are examples of “a hold” used in a sentence:

• The hotel put a hold on my card until we arrive and check-in.
• I put a hold on the library book, but it won’t be available for another two weeks.
• Her sister put a hold on the party room for the bridal shower.
• The bank put a hold on the check I deposited until they can verify that it’s real.
• Cybercriminals have a hold over their victims when they steal their photos as blackmail.

The definition of “ahold”

“Ahold” is an informal adverb that modifies the sentence’s verb. “Ahold” means to gain contact, ownership, or possession. It can also be used to mean “take hold of.” “Ahold” can be used figuratively or literally. This adverb is typically only used informally within the United States. Outside of the U.S., it is typically written as “get hold of” or “get a hold of.”

Since “ahold” is generally used informally, it should be avoided in formal writing, for example, academic essays or professional articles. It’s OK to use “ahold” when writing to a friend, writing creatively, or writing an outline.

“Ahold” used in a sentence

• I tried to call my mother, but I haven’t been able to get ahold of her.
• I grabbed ahold of the railing all the way from the fifth floor to the eleventh floor.
• We must make sure our competition doesn’t get ahold of this idea.
• My father took ahold of my mother’s hand as they crossed the street.
• Grab ahold of the steering wheel!

Turning “ahold” into something appropriate for formal use

As mentioned before, “ahold” shouldn’t be used in formal writing as it is an informal adverb. Consider using these synonyms instead:

• Grabbed hold of/grab hold of
• Took hold of/take hold of
• Seized
• Secured
• Contacted
• Connected with

For example, instead of writing, “He took ahold of my hand as we crossed the street” in a formal piece, you could instead say, “He took hold of my hand my hand as we crossed the street.” Or, instead of writing, “Have you been able to get ahold of my mother?” You could instead write, “Have you been in contact with my mother?” These alternative phrases can be very helpful if you are confused about when to use ahold in a sentence. By trying these alternative phrases, you can make your writing much stronger and more formal.

How to memorize the difference between “a hold” and “ahold”

Remember, “ahold” is typically used in a sentence to:

• Contact a person or a location, like a restaurant or a doctor’s office.
• Describe physically holding or grasping something

On the contrary, “a hold” is typically used in a sentence to:

• Control a situation
• Reserve something
• Secure or verify money or payment, especially in the context of finance

Tips to improve your writing

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There are plenty of confusing words and phrases in the English language, but by now, you’ll have the confidence to correctly use “ahold” and “a hold” in a sentence.