held back
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
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French auto giant Renault said Thursday that global sales stalled in the first six months of the year, held back by weaker Dacia sales in Europe.
From Barron's ● Jul. 23, 2026
For generations, Argentines have grown up believing their country was destined for more than history delivered - rich in talent, held back repeatedly by instability.
From BBC ● Jul. 15, 2026
Until now, attempts to produce it had been held back by difficulties in developing the right materials.
From Science Daily ● Jul. 11, 2026
His lips quivered as he held back tears.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 9, 2026
Art and Quincey held back, and the latter said:—
From "Dracula" by Bram Stoker
Although the held-back funds make up less than 1% of California’s education budget, they have an outsize cumulative effect.
From Los Angeles Times ● Jul. 14, 2025
The held-back funds are tied to programs that, in some cases, have received these dollars for decades.
From Los Angeles Times ● Jul. 14, 2025
In one moment, a student may sing a solo that lights up the room like a supernova only for them to later sing it through a clenched throat and held-back tears.
From Seattle Times ● Sep. 20, 2022
Each jurisdiction must appoint two full-time commissioners and submit applications laying out the commission’s safety and investigative credentials and establishing its independence from Metro before the held-back money can be released, FTA officials say.
From Washington Post ● Jul. 23, 2017
I hurry down the block while my held-back torrent of tears splashes down my face.
From "Love, Hate & Other Filters" by Samira Ahmed
