Another common expression, to hold water, is about the strength or weakness of an idea,opinion or argument.

VOA: special.2009.05.10

The method can quickly judge the soil's ability to hold water and absorb nutrients.

VOA: special.2009.01.20

The students were then asked to hold their hand in cold water for as long as they could.

VOA: special.2009.08.18

However,he says, many plants are not closing their pores in order to hold in more water.

VOA: special.2010.01.26

Ceramic objects permitted early cultures to make containers that could hold water.

VOA: special.2009.09.09