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.

Worries about the impact of artificial intelligence on the job market are another reason for workers to hold back on higher pay demands.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 1, 2026

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

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

She was trying to hold back her laughter.

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