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.

Fulham are now very much in a Premier League holding pattern.

From BBC • May 25, 2026

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

Instead, until officials know whether the inflationary effects of the Iran war will be contained or broad-based, the central bank seems to be stuck in a holding pattern.

From Barron's • Apr. 9, 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

It wasn’t until the third holding pattern southwest of Kennedy Airport that Klotz told ATC that he didn’t think the plane had enough fuel to reach an alternative airport.

From "Outliers" by Malcolm Gladwell