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.

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

Many manufacturers, retailers, importers and others are being thrust back into a holding pattern reminiscent of last year, when uncertainty over tariffs made even the basics of business hard to figure out.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 20, 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

The labor market has been stuck in a low-hire, low-fire holding pattern for some time.

From MarketWatch • Dec. 4, 2025

The school week is like a holding pattern.

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