hold the phone

The phrase "hold the phone" is an idiom used to tell someone to stop or pause what they are doing, usually in response to surprising or unexpected information or a sudden change in plans. It can also be used to request someone to wait or remain in a current position or situation until further notice or clarification is provided. It is a figurative expression used to emphasize the need for someone to momentarily suspend their actions or hold on to a phone conversation as a metaphorical representation of temporarily halting or delaying a process.