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hold the line

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hold the line (at someone or something)

Fig. not to exceed a certain limit regarding someone or something. Having your wife on the payroll is one thing, but no one else from the family—I will hold the line at her. We have to hold the line at this kind of expenditure. Okay, we'll hold the line.

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hold the line (on something)

to not reduce or increase something Businesses are holding the line on hiring and spending plans because of uncertainty about the economy.

See also: hold, line

hold the line

Maintain the existing position or state of affairs. For example, We'll have to hold the line on spending until our profits rise. This term alludes to former military tactics, in which a line of troops was supposed to prevent an enemy breakthrough. Eventually, it was transferred to civilian enterprises. [Mid-1900s]

See also: hold, line

hold the line

To maintain the existing position or state of affairs: had to hold the line on salary increases.

See also: hold, line