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.

Italy's World Cup heartbreak was crystallised in the tear-streaked face of coach Rino Gattuso, who struggled to hold back his emotions after the national team's defeat.

From BBC • Apr. 1, 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

The company’s operating profit guidance for 2026 fell short of analysts’ views, with U.S. tariffs and currency headwinds expected to hold back profit growth.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 5, 2026

Central bankers fear periods of deflation, in which falling prices lead businesses and households to hold back on spending in anticipation of securing better deals in the future.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 4, 2026

She was trying to hold back her laughter.

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