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.

“It kind of siphoned all of that pent-up, closeted stuff that you hold back, that you couldn’t freely express,” she said.

From Slate • May 4, 2026

“While higher energy prices are a boon for Canada’s economy given it is a major net producer of oil and gas, the ongoing uncertainty about trade policy continues to hold back sentiment,” they said.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 1, 2026

Ice shelves act as barriers that hold back Antarctica's inland glaciers and ice sheets.

From Science Daily • Apr. 30, 2026

Some think that potential buyers of baseball clubs may hold back since the current contract between owners and the players union expires at the end of this season.

From Barron's • Apr. 23, 2026

Zheng’s face screwed up, as if he was trying to hold back some emotion.

From "The Boy Who Met a Whale" by Nizrana Farook