holding pattern

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.

U.S. rates markets were moving from acute escalation risk toward a cautious holding pattern after the U.S.-Iran cease-fire, but confidence in durability remains limited, the strategists said.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 10, 2026

So, as it stands, both Jersey and the Isle of Man are in a holding pattern, waiting for their respective assisted dying bills to get pass into law.

From BBC • Feb. 26, 2026

The FAA kept the debris response area, or DRA, active for another 71 minutes, leaving some flights in a holding pattern over the Caribbean.

From Salon • Jan. 12, 2026

But overall, the stocks seem stuck in a holding pattern.

From Barron's • Dec. 28, 2025

The school week is like a holding pattern.

From "Ask the Passengers" by A.S. King