"Held out against" is a phrasal verb that refers to the act of resisting or remaining steadfast despite pressure, difficulty, or opposition. It conveys the idea of standing firm or refusing to yield in the face of a challenge or adversity.
When someone "holds out against" something, it means they are able to withstand or endure it. This could be in the context of a physical fight, a battle, a negotiation, or even a personal struggle. The phrase often implies determination, resilience, and perseverance.
To illustrate, imagine a group of workers who are engaged in a strike, demanding better wages and working conditions. If they "hold out against" the company, it means they continue to protest and refuse to return to work until their demands are met, despite potential threats, pressure, or temptations to give in. In this scenario, they are persisting and demonstrating their commitment to securing fair treatment.
Similarly, if an individual "holds out against" peer pressure to engage in harmful behaviors like smoking or substance abuse, it means they resist the temptations and stay steadfast in their decision to stay away from such activities.
Ultimately, "held out against" signifies the ability to withstand or persist in a situation where others may have succumbed or given up. It emphasizes the strength of character, determination, and resilience of the individual or group involved.
