hold the floor: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘hold the floor’ mean?
The idiom "hold the floor" means to continue speaking or dominating a conversation or discussion, often preventing others from speaking or interrupting.
Idiom Explorer
"Stand fast" is an idiom that means to remain firm and resolute in the face of opposition or adversity, without wavering or giving in.
The idiom "hold the ring" means to be in control or to take charge of a situation or event.
The idiom "hold the reins" means to have control or be in charge of a situation or group of people.
The idiom "hold the phone" is used to tell someone to wait or pause because new information or a change in plans has occurred.
The idiom "hold the line" means to remain in a current position or keep a situation stable, often in the face of difficulty or opposition.
The idiom "hold the cards" means to have the control or power in a situation.
The idiom "hold that thought" means to ask someone to temporarily stop speaking or delay a discussion until one is ready to continue or listen further.
The idiom "hold sway" means to have control, power, or influence over something or someone. It suggests a dominant authority that exerts its influence and maintains its position.
The idiom "hold someone's feet to the fire" means to put pressure on someone or hold them accountable for their actions or words.
Silent Power
The idiom "hold the floor" is an expression commonly used in the English language. It is derived from the literal meaning of controlling the conversation or discussion, particularly in a public setting.
The idiom is believed to have originated from parliamentary or legislative debates, where holding the floor refers to a speaker having the right to speak and command attention during a session. In this context, the phrase represents the power and authority a speaker possesses while addressing the assembly.
Furthermore, "hold the floor" can also be used in a metaphorical sense, to describe someone who has the undivided attention of a group or individuals. Holding the floor in this context implies that the speaker is captivating the audience, monopolizing the conversation, or simply being the center of attention.
The idiom can be used in various situations, such as during meetings, presentations, debates, or even casual conversations. It is often employed when someone wants to assert their authority, express their opinion, or share their thoughts without interruption.
Using the idiom "hold the floor" can also convey a sense of leadership or dominance. It implies that the individual is confident, knowledgeable, and commands the respect of others in the conversation or discussion.
When looking at related idioms, "hold the line" and "have the floor" come to mind. "Hold the line" is a phrase used to encourage someone to maintain their position or stance, especially in difficult or challenging situations. It can be seen as a way to support someone who is holding firm in their beliefs or actions.
Similarly, "have the floor" is an idiom that refers to someone having the right to speak or address a group or audience. It is often used in formal settings, such as conferences or meetings, where individuals are given the opportunity to present their ideas or opinions without interruption.
Both "hold the line" and "have the floor" are related to the concept of control and authority in communication. They all emphasize the power and influence individuals have in shaping conversations and discussions.
Overall, "hold the floor" is a versatile idiom that can be used in different contexts to describe someone who is in control of the conversation, whether in a formal or informal setting. It represents the power, authority, and attention one possesses while speaking, capturing the essence of commanding attention and influence.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom "hold the floor" can be used in a sentence:
1. During the meeting, Susan held the floor and discussed her team's progress on the project.
2. The speaker held the floor for over an hour, captivating the audience with his inspirational stories.
3. In the debate, the senator held the floor and presented compelling arguments to support her position.
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