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.

For now, prices are “in a holding pattern, waiting to see if the extra reserves pumped into the market run out before the patience of the warring parties,” he said.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 30, 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

Most aircraft had already been rerouted around the closed airspace, but the agency said it diverted one plane and put another in a holding pattern for 24 minutes.

From Salon • Jan. 12, 2026

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

From Barron's • Dec. 28, 2025

But the room, although dim, isn’t dark enough, so I switch my mind into the holding pattern that passes for attention.

From "The Handmaid's Tale" by Margaret Atwood