hold 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.
"I don't know what we're going to do," his mother Arwen said, struggling to hold back tears.
From BBC ● Jul. 7, 2026
DeArmas, usually so composed, couldn't hold back his tears.
From Barron's ● Jul. 7, 2026
After reading the exchange on Friday morning, Meloni didn’t hold back.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jun. 27, 2026
Networks typically hold back some commercial inventory for big events in case audience levels fall short of what advertisers are guaranteed.
From Los Angeles Times ● Jun. 18, 2026
Pong was trying hard to keep his voice level, but he couldn't hold back the angry crackle in his words.
From "A Wish in the Dark" by Christina Soontornvat
