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Showing results for hold back.
Definitions

hold back

VERB
repress
Synonyms
WEAK
bit bridle check control curb defer delay deny forbear hold down hold in hold off inhibit keep keep back keep out postpone prevent put off refrain refuse restrain stop suppress withhold

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.

Really, we’re just watching McKellen give a bravura, scene-gobbling performance that doesn’t hold back one iota.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 9, 2026

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

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

I don’t know how to respond, so I stay quiet, but I can see Patrice trying to hold back her temper.

From "Finding Junie Kim" by Ellen Oh