Tango has multiple senses of “holding” and “breaking hold,” but in common dance practice the phrase refers to how closely and continuously partners connect during a step, and when that connection is intentionally released or interrupted. Direct answer
- In tango, “break hold” generally means momentarily suspending or releasing the closed embrace or connection between the leader and follower. This can occur during a rotation, feint, or turn where one dancer steps away from direct contact or alters the frame, creating space before re-establishing connection.
- Reasons for breaking hold include facilitating a directional change, allowing a clean line for a leg or torso movement, or creating a visual contrast that accentuates a figure. After the move, dancers typically re-enter the hold smoothly to maintain the overall flow and musicality.
- In Argentine tango and many social dances, the hold is often subtle and flexible: the followers’ torso and arms stay engaged, but the precise point of contact may shift briefly. In ballroom tango, holds tend to be more structured, with clearer rules about when contact is maintained versus released.
Practical notes
- If you’re learning, pay attention to how leaders signal a break (through a slight body weight shift, a guiding arm, or a step that creates space) and how followers respond (preparing to re-engage with the frame and weight). Practice smooth transitions between connected and slightly released holds to preserve balance and musicality.
- Watch patterns that involve pivots or quick directional changes; these often require a brief moment of reduced hold before the next figure is taken.
If you’d like, I can tailor guidance to a specific tango style (Argentine tango, ballroom tango, or social tango) or walk through a few example figures that typically involve breaking hold.
