The phrase "hold forth" means to speak publicly or at length. The IPA phonetic transcription for this phrase is /hoʊld fɔrθ/. The first syllable "hoʊld" is pronounced as homophonous with the word "gold" and the "ɔ" in "fɔrθ" is pronounced as in the word "for". The "θ" represents the voiceless dental fricative sound heard at the end of the word "forth". "Hold forth" is a common English phrase that can be found in both formal and informal contexts.
The phrase "hold forth" refers to the act of speaking or delivering a speech in a confident and authoritative manner, often on a particular topic or issue. It is usually used to describe someone who expresses their opinions, ideas, or knowledge at length and with enthusiasm.
When someone "holds forth," they typically take center stage and command attention, using persuasive or forceful language to convey their message. This expression implies that the speaker is actively engaging with their audience, expounding upon their views or sharing valuable insights. The individual who holds forth may implore others to listen attentively, offering a compelling argument or explanation.
The term "hold forth" carries connotations of both authority and verbosity. It suggests that the person speaking has a certain level of expertise or experience on the subject matter and wishes to impart their knowledge to others. This phrase often describes individuals who are inclined towards expressing themselves confidently and assertively, confident in their beliefs or arguments.
The term "hold forth" is often used in formal settings, such as academic lectures, political debates, or public speeches. However, it can also be used to describe more informal situations, such as when someone passionately shares their thoughts during casual conversations or social gatherings.
In summary, "hold forth" refers to the act of speaking or giving a speech in a confident, authoritative manner, usually involving the expression of personal opinions, knowledge, or ideas.
The phrase "hold forth" has roots in Middle English and dates back to the 14th century. The term "hold" comes from the Old English word "healdan", which means "to keep" or "to take care of". In this context, it means to maintain a particular position or perspective. The word "forth" derives from the Old English word "forþ", which means "forward" or "out". Thus, "hold forth" essentially means to express one's thoughts or opinions publicly or forcefully by projecting them outward.