taking hold
phrase
as in working
to produce a desired effect
It was clear in the students' essays that her lessons had taken hold.
Synonyms & Similar Words
Relevance
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of taking hold
To keep that anxiety from taking hold, work on career assets that are uniquely yours, like your network, reputation and expertise.
—
Chris Dobstaff,
Forbes.com,
30 June 2026
To some extent, the 2026 festival was a retrospective of the late twentieth century, when modernist strictures were loosening and a more expansive, pluralistic mentality was taking hold.
—
Alex Ross,
New Yorker,
29 June 2026
Chris Dobstaff,
Forbes.com,
30 June 2026
To some extent, the 2026 festival was a retrospective of the late twentieth century, when modernist strictures were loosening and a more expansive, pluralistic mentality was taking hold.
—
Alex Ross,
New Yorker,
29 June 2026
Recent Examples of Synonyms for taking hold
taking effect
Phrase
-
Finally, the public comments can help Congress identify a basis for interventions that could block the rule from taking effect.
Cite this Entry
“Taking hold.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/taking%20hold. Accessed 4 Jul. 2026.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
