hole in the wall: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
B2Informal, colloquial
Quick answer
What does “hole in the wall” mean?
A very small, basic, often makeshift or unimpressive place, especially a bar, cafe, or restaurant, sometimes implying it is little-known or discovered by chance.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A very small, basic, often makeshift or unimpressive place, especially a bar, cafe, or restaurant, sometimes implying it is little-known or discovered by chance.
An automated teller machine (ATM); also, more generally, any small, cramped, or inconspicuous space or establishment.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
In UK English, primarily refers to a small, unpretentious eatery or pub. In US English, the primary meaning is an ATM, with the 'small establishment' meaning also understood but less dominant.
Connotations
UK: Often positive connotation of a hidden gem. US: Neutral for ATM; for an establishment, similar hidden gem connotation but less frequent.
Frequency
More frequent in UK English for describing small venues. In US English, 'ATM' or 'cash machine' is more common than 'hole in the wall' for the financial meaning.
Grammar
How to Use “hole in the wall” in a Sentence
discover + a + hole in the wallbe + a + real + hole in the wallfind + a + hole in the wallrecommend + this + hole in the wallVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “hole in the wall” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- It had a real hole-in-the-wall charm.
- They run a hole-in-the-wall operation down by the docks.
American English
- It was a hole-in-the-wall joint, but the pizza was incredible.
- We found a hole-in-the-wall taqueria.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Informally used to describe a very small, independent business premises.
Academic
Rare; might appear in sociological studies of urban spaces or informal economies.
Everyday
Common when recommending or describing small, informal cafes, bars, or takeaways.
Technical
Not used.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “hole in the wall”
- Using it formally. *'The corporate headquarters was a hole in the wall.' (Incorrect register)
- Confusing the primary US (ATM) and UK (small venue) meanings in cross-cultural conversation.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
It is usually positive or neutral, implying a modest but worthwhile place. Context is key; it can be mildly negative if emphasising shabbiness without quality.
Yes, it can describe any very small, basic retail establishment, like a newsagent or repair shop.
A 'dive bar' specifically refers to a shabby, often cheap drinking establishment. A 'hole in the wall' is broader, can be any type of small venue, and often has a more affectionate connotation.
It originates from the physical machine being embedded in a wall, literally a 'hole' where you access cash.
A very small, basic, often makeshift or unimpressive place, especially a bar, cafe, or restaurant, sometimes implying it is little-known or discovered by chance.
Hole in the wall is usually informal, colloquial in register.
Hole in the wall: in British English it is pronounced /ˌhəʊl ɪn ðə ˈwɔːl/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌhoʊl ɪn ðə ˈwɔːl/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “A real hole in the wall”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of literally finding a good restaurant through a hole in a wall – it's small, hidden, but a great discovery.
Conceptual Metaphor
MODESTY IS SMALL PHYSICAL SPACE / AUTHENTICITY IS BEING HIDDEN
Practice
Quiz
In American English, what is the most common meaning of 'hole in the wall'?