hold one’s drink: Idiom Meaning and Origin

What does ‘hold one's drink’ mean?

The idiom "hold one's drink" means to have the ability to consume alcohol without the negative effects of becoming drunk or losing control. It implies someone's tolerance for alcohol and is often used to describe someone who can handle a large amount of alcohol without getting intoxicated.

Idiom Explorer

Unyielding Liquor Stamina

The idiom "hold one's alcohol" is closely related to the expression "hold one's drink". Both idioms refer to the ability to consume alcohol without becoming intoxicated or losing control over one's actions and behavior. While "hold one's drink" is more commonly used, "hold one's alcohol" is another way to express the same concept.

When someone is said to be able to "hold their alcohol" or "hold their drink," it means that they can drink a significant amount without showing any visible signs of becoming drunk. This ability to tolerate alcohol without it negatively affecting their behavior or judgment is often admired or respected in social situations.

The idiom "hold one's liquor" is also related to "hold one's drink" and "hold one's alcohol". It is used to describe someone's ability to consume alcohol without succumbing to its effects. Just like "hold one's drink," the phrase "hold one's liquor" implies that the person can handle the consumption of alcohol without losing control or exhibiting negative behavior.

I can handle my drink and control my behavior.

The idioms "hold one's drink," "hold one's alcohol," and "hold one's liquor" all convey the idea of being able to consume alcohol without it negatively impacting one's behavior, judgment, or composure. They reflect an individual's ability to resist the effects of alcohol and maintain control over their actions and emotions.

These idioms are often used in social contexts to describe someone's tolerance or ability to handle alcohol. When someone is able to "hold their drink," "hold their alcohol," or "hold their liquor," it can be seen as a sign of strength and self-control. On the other hand, those who cannot hold their drink may be viewed as lacking in these qualities.

The idioms "hold one's drink," "hold one's alcohol," and "hold one's liquor" can also be used metaphorically to describe a person's ability to handle challenging or intense situations without losing control or succumbing to pressure. In this sense, these idioms reflect emotional and mental resilience, suggesting that the person can withstand difficult circumstances without breaking down.

It's important to note that these idioms are not meant to encourage excessive or irresponsible alcohol consumption. Rather, they serve as descriptive expressions that highlight someone's ability to handle alcohol or challenging situations with composure and control.

The idioms "hold one's drink," "hold one's alcohol," and "hold one's liquor" all convey the ability to consume alcohol without it negatively affecting one's behavior or judgment. These idioms can also be used metaphorically to describe emotional and mental resilience in challenging situations. While "hold one's drink" is the most commonly used expression, "hold one's alcohol" and "hold one's liquor" are also used to convey the same concept. Overall, these idioms reflect qualities of strength, self-control, and composure.

Example usage

Examples of how the idiom *hold one's drink* can be used in a sentence:

  1. He can really hold his drink and still remain very composed.
  2. She couldn't hold her drink and ended up getting very drunk.
  3. They were impressed with his ability to hold his drink and not get easily intoxicated.

More "Alcohol" idioms