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.

We asked our staffers for their dreamiest expectations and they didn’t hold back: space epics, Matt Damon in a helmet and, yes, a “Jackass” movie.

From Los Angeles Times • May 14, 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

As ice shelves become thinner and weaker, they lose some of their ability to hold back the glaciers behind them.

From Science Daily • May 10, 2026

In comparison, Mandava's look seemed to hold back.

From BBC • May 9, 2026

Seven’s cheeks were hot as Alaric tried, unsuccessfully, to hold back an amused smirk.

From "Witchlings" by Claribel A. Ortega