Not hold water

verb

If an idea, argument, or reason will not hold water, it means it's not valid or believable.

Her alibi that she was out of town during the crime doesn't hold water.
Visual representation of "not hold water" - If an idea, argument, or reason will not hold water, it means it's not valid or believable.

Often appears as...

  • argument doesn't hold water
  • theory doesn't hold water

Usage tips

Idiomatic

verb

If an idea, argument, or reason will not hold water, it means it's not valid or believable.

Her alibi that she was out of town during the crime doesn't hold water.
Visual representation of "not hold water" - If an idea, argument, or reason will not hold water, it means it's not valid or believable.

Often appears as...

  • argument doesn't hold water
  • theory doesn't hold water

Usage tips

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "not hold water"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Metaphorical Origin

Originally, 'hold water' related to containers keeping liquids without leaking. Metaphorically, ideas should not 'leak' flaws.

Illustration for Metaphorical Origin
A basket can't hold water, just like his excuse can't hold up under scrutiny.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Critical Thinking

Use 'not hold water' when you critically evaluate something and find it lacking in substance or reason.

Illustration for Critical Thinking
His explanations for the errors in the report just don't hold water.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Skeptical Tone

The phrase often implies skepticism or doubt about the validity of the argument or idea.

Illustration for Skeptical Tone
The board found that the manager's justification for the overspend did not hold water.
LampPro Tip 1/3

Metaphorical Origin

Originally, 'hold water' related to containers keeping liquids without leaking. Metaphorically, ideas should not 'leak' flaws.

Illustration for Metaphorical Origin
A basket can't hold water, just like his excuse can't hold up under scrutiny.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Critical Thinking

Use 'not hold water' when you critically evaluate something and find it lacking in substance or reason.

Illustration for Critical Thinking
His explanations for the errors in the report just don't hold water.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Skeptical Tone

The phrase often implies skepticism or doubt about the validity of the argument or idea.

Illustration for Skeptical Tone
The board found that the manager's justification for the overspend did not hold water.
LampPro Tip 1/3

Metaphorical Origin

Originally, 'hold water' related to containers keeping liquids without leaking. Metaphorically, ideas should not 'leak' flaws.

Illustration for Metaphorical Origin
A basket can't hold water, just like his excuse can't hold up under scrutiny.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Critical Thinking

Use 'not hold water' when you critically evaluate something and find it lacking in substance or reason.

Illustration for Critical Thinking
His explanations for the errors in the report just don't hold water.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Skeptical Tone

The phrase often implies skepticism or doubt about the validity of the argument or idea.

Illustration for Skeptical Tone
The board found that the manager's justification for the overspend did not hold water.
Visual representation of the word "Not hold water"

Never forget "Not hold water"

Humans forget easily. That's why you should download WordUp: Smart reminders, word games, AI practice, and much more!

Download on the App StoreGet it on Google PlayGet it from MicrosoftGet it on AppGallery
Chrome

WordUp Chrome Extension

As you browse the web instantly look up words you don’t know.

Get Chrome Extension
Back to top