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.

That leaves the BOJ in a familiar bind: Hike too soon and risk clipping fragile growth, or hold back and risk damaging household confidence, plus U.S. scrutiny if the yen weakens excessively.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 24, 2026

The intelligence to be able to hold back and then to make that run to get on the end of it was incredible.

From BBC • Mar. 20, 2026

He judged perfectly when to attack and when to hold back, working singles and twos instead against a potent Pakistan attack who were taking regular wickets at the other end.

From Barron's • Feb. 25, 2026

He estimated a hundred middle school parents each year ask him if they should hold back their sons.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 22, 2026

She was trying to hold back her laughter.

From "Pony Problems: Nancy Drew and the Clue Crew, #3" by Carolyn Keene