The term 'hold on (to)' can be expressed in a variety of ways, as demonstrated by the crossword solutions: RETAIN (6 letters), KEEP (4 letters), CLING (5 letters), CLASP (5 letters), SAVE (4 letters), GRASP (5 letters), and ADHERE (6 letters). RETAIN means to KEEP possession of something, while KEEP implies maintaining something in its current state. CLING and GRASP both suggest a physical action, with CLING referring to holding onto something tightly and GRASP referring to taking hold of something firmly. CLASP is similar to GRASP, but it implies a more secure grip. SAVE implies preserving something from harm or destruction, while ADHERE suggests sticking to something.