HOLDING WATER Meaning and
Definition
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The phrase "holding water" is an idiomatic expression that is commonly used in English to describe the credibility or validity of an argument, explanation, or statement. When an argument or statement is said to "hold water," it means that it is logical, sound, or reasonable, and that it can withstand scrutiny or examination without being easily refuted or challenged.
This expression is often used when evaluating the strength or reliability of claims, theories, or evidence. If an argument holds water, it means that it is solid, consistent, and coherent, demonstrating a substantial basis of truth or accuracy. Conversely, if an argument does not hold water, it signifies that it is weak, flawed, or lacking in logical reasoning, making it vulnerable to critique or disapproval.
To say that an argument or statement does not hold water is to suggest that it is unconvincing, unreliable, or inconsistent, thereby casting doubt on its overall validity or believability. Consequently, the ability to "hold water" is a measure of the soundness, quality, or reliability of an argument or theory.
This phrase finds its origins in the metaphorical concept that the truth or strength of an argument is akin to a container holding water. If the container (argument) is strong and intact, it will confine the water (validity) and prevent it from leaking or being challenged. Conversely, if the container (argument) is weak or damaged, it will not be able to hold the water (validity) and it will become apparent that the argument is faulty or unsound.
Common Misspellings for HOLDING WATER
- holding watev
- holding watep
- holding wates
- hoeldingwater
- holedingwater
- holdinngwater
- h olding water
- ho lding water
- hol ding water
- hold ing water
- holdi ng water
- holdin g water
- holding w ater
- holding wa ter
- holding wat er
- holding wate r
Etymology of HOLDING WATER
The phrase "holding water" is an idiomatic expression that originates from the early practice of carrying water in containers or vessels. The etymology of the phrase can be understood by analyzing its literal meaning.
The word "holding" in this context refers to the act of containing or keeping something within a particular space or object. It stems from the Old English word "haldan", which means "to keep" or "to have possession of".
The term "water", on the other hand, comes from the Old English word "waeter", which has roots in various Germanic languages and can be traced back to the Proto-Indo-European word "wodr" or "wedor". It is a general term referring to the transparent, odorless, and tasteless liquid that forms the seas, lakes, rivers, rain, and other sources.
