held out

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.

He looked into playing in Japan and South Korea, but the guaranteed roster spots there filled as he held out hope for a job in the United States.

From Los Angeles Times • May 18, 2026

Trump talked about the possibility of increased economic ties, and Xi held out the possibility of U.S. companies enjoying “even broader prospects in China.”

From Barron's • May 14, 2026

Instead, it just felt like an event held out of habit.

From Slate • Mar. 30, 2026

As Caleb's mum I have held out hope that this would be done in this mandate, I believed the evidence and facts were enough.

From BBC • Feb. 9, 2026

I held out my paper cup, but she lifted her chin at the crumpled-up cup on her own tray.

From "Legendary Frybread Drive-In" by Cynthia Leitich Smith