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.

And the dozens of journalists gathered in the room didn't hold back.

From BBC • May 22, 2026

“This mosque for my community members is a second home,” Hassane said, pausing to hold back tears.

From Los Angeles Times • May 21, 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

MarketWatch: Investors once again are faced with a decision to either chase the stock-market rally or hold back.

From MarketWatch • May 12, 2026

The German army was now closing in on Moscow, and hundreds of thousands of Red Army soldiers were desperately trying to hold back the invaders.

From "A Thousand Sisters" by Elizabeth Wein