hold a position
Maintain a specific job
Literally: To grip or keep a physical location or stance
In 15 Seconds
- To have a specific job title or rank in a company.
- Commonly used in professional resumes and job interviews.
- Implies responsibility and a formal place within an organization.
Meaning
This phrase means to have a specific job, title, or rank within an organization. It is like saying you 'own' a spot in the company hierarchy for a while.
Key Examples
3 of 6Updating a resume
I currently hold a position as a Senior Analyst at the firm.
I currently hold a position as a Senior Analyst at the firm.
Introducing a guest speaker
She has held a position on the board for over a decade.
She has held a position on the board for over a decade.
Talking to a friend about a promotion
I'm so happy I finally hold a position with some real influence!
I'm so happy I finally hold a position with some real influence!
Cultural Background
The phrase reflects the structured nature of Western professional life, where jobs are seen as 'slots' that individuals fill. It originates from military terminology regarding defending a specific geographic point, which transitioned into the corporate world during the 20th century. Today, it emphasizes the prestige and stability of a long-term career role.
The 'Opinion' Twist
Remember that you can also 'hold a position' on a debate. If someone asks your 'position' on a topic, they want your opinion, not your job title!
Don't Overuse It
If you use this for every tiny task you do, you'll sound like you're trying too hard. Save it for the big roles.
In 15 Seconds
- To have a specific job title or rank in a company.
- Commonly used in professional resumes and job interviews.
- Implies responsibility and a formal place within an organization.
What It Means
To hold a position is about more than just working. It implies you have a formal title or a specific rank. Think of it like a seat at a table. You are the one sitting in that chair right now. It suggests responsibility and a defined role within a group. It is very common in business, the military, and government.
How To Use It
You usually follow this phrase with the name of the job or the department. For example, you might hold a position in marketing or hold a position as a manager. You can also use it to describe how long you stayed there. You might say you held the position for five years. It sounds a bit more professional than just saying 'I have a job.'
When To Use It
Use this when you are updating your LinkedIn profile. Use it during a job interview to sound serious and established. It is perfect for formal introductions. If you are at a networking event, telling someone what position you hold makes you sound like an expert. It is also great for talking about someone’s career history or legacy.
When NOT To Use It
Do not use this for casual or temporary gigs. If you are babysitting for a neighbor, you do not hold a position as a childcare specialist. That sounds a bit too intense for a Saturday night! Also, avoid it when talking about hobbies. You do not hold a position as a guitar player in your garage band unless you are being very sarcastic with your friends.
Cultural Background
In Western corporate culture, your 'position' is a big part of your identity. People often define themselves by the rank they hold. Historically, this phrase has roots in the military. Soldiers would literally hold a position on a battlefield to defend it. Over time, this moved from the trenches to the office cubicles. Now, we 'defend' our roles in the company instead of on the grass.
Common Variations
You might hear people say hold a post or occupy a role. In a more abstract sense, you can hold a position on an issue, which means you have a specific opinion. But usually, when people talk about their careers, they stick to the classic hold a position. It is the gold standard for sounding like a professional adult who actually knows where their desk is.
Usage Notes
This is a formal collocation primarily used in professional, academic, or administrative contexts. Avoid using it in very casual settings unless you are being intentionally formal for comedic effect.
The 'Opinion' Twist
Remember that you can also 'hold a position' on a debate. If someone asks your 'position' on a topic, they want your opinion, not your job title!
Don't Overuse It
If you use this for every tiny task you do, you'll sound like you're trying too hard. Save it for the big roles.
The Military Link
In the US and UK, 'holding a position' still carries a vibe of 'defending' or 'being responsible for' a spot, which is why it sounds so strong.
Examples
6I currently hold a position as a Senior Analyst at the firm.
I currently hold a position as a Senior Analyst at the firm.
Standard professional usage for a CV.
She has held a position on the board for over a decade.
She has held a position on the board for over a decade.
Shows long-term commitment and respect.
I'm so happy I finally hold a position with some real influence!
I'm so happy I finally hold a position with some real influence!
Expressing personal pride in a career milestone.
Who's going to hold the position while Sarah is on leave?
Who's going to hold the position while Sarah is on leave?
Refers to the vacancy of a specific role.
My cat holds a permanent position as the Chief Nap Officer.
My cat holds a permanent position as the Chief Nap Officer.
Uses formal language for a silly, non-professional context.
It was hard for him to no longer hold a position of such power.
It was hard for him to no longer hold a position of such power.
Reflects on the emotional weight of losing a title.
Test Yourself
Choose the correct verb to complete the professional sentence.
He has ___ a position at the university since 2015.
In professional English, we specifically use the verb 'hold' with 'position' to describe employment.
Complete the sentence to describe a high-ranking role.
It is an honor to ___ a position of leadership in this community.
The collocation 'hold a position' is the standard way to describe having a role of leadership.
🎉 Score: /2
Visual Learning Aids
Formality of 'Hold a Position'
I've got a job at...
I've got a job at the mall.
I work as a...
I work as a designer.
I hold a position...
I hold a position in the legal department.
Where to use 'Hold a Position'
Job Interview
I held a position of responsibility.
LinkedIn Profile
Currently holding a position as CEO.
News Report
The minister holds a key position.
Company Meeting
Who holds the position of treasurer?
Practice Bank
2 exercisesHe has ___ a position at the university since 2015.
In professional English, we specifically use the verb 'hold' with 'position' to describe employment.
It is an honor to ___ a position of leadership in this community.
The collocation 'hold a position' is the standard way to describe having a role of leadership.
🎉 Score: /2
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsEssentially, yes, but it sounds much more formal. You wouldn't say you hold a position as a dishwasher, but you would for a managerial role.
You can, but it might sound a bit too formal. It is better suited for 'careers' rather than 'gigs'.
Holding an office is usually reserved for elected officials, like a mayor or president. Holding a position is for any professional role.
Only if you are discussing work seriously. If you're just chatting, it's better to say 'I'm working at...'
It is more natural to use the simple present: 'I hold a position.' Using the '-ing' form makes it sound temporary.
Yes, it is perfectly standard in both American and British English.
Yes, in sports or the military, you can hold a position on the field, meaning you stay in one spot.
It means the person has a lot of authority and can make important decisions.
Yes! If the volunteer role has a title, like 'Volunteer Coordinator,' you can say you hold that position.
It is very similar, but occupy sounds slightly more clinical or cold. Hold is the warmer, more common choice.
Related Phrases
Fill a role
Serve as
Hold office
Take a stand
Occupying a seat
