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.

Erick Erickson, the conservative radio host and founder of the RedState political blog, did not hold back.

From Salon • Jun. 3, 2026

On the falling roll, Mansfield says the DfE should be doing "more thinking", though you "can't hold back the tide" when a school's numbers have reduced too dramatically to keep it open.

From BBC • Jun. 1, 2026

It’s a choice we make: to be bold and connect with someone or to hold back and avoid.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 29, 2026

“Recent increases for long-term interest rates will continue to hold back home buyer demand,” Robert Dietz, the trade group’s chief economist said in a statement.

From Barron's • May 19, 2026

For the first time, Neel didn’t hold back his correction.

From "Tiger Boy" by Mitali Perkins