holds back

VERB

repress

Synonyms

WEAK

bit bridle check control curb defer delay deny forbear hold down hold in inhibit keep keep back keep out postpone prevent put off refrain refuse restrain stop suppress withhold

Antonyms

WEAK

let go reveal

VERB

repress

Synonyms

WEAK

bit bridle check control curb defer delay deny forbear hold down hold in hold off inhibit keep keep back keep out postpone prevent put off refrain refuse restrain stop suppress withhold

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.

See Examples For:

holds back

Those could include lifting Iran-related sanctions on China, even as Xi holds back on demanding Trump put an end to the war, which is more than two months old.

From MarketWatch ● May 13, 2026

If hiring appetite weakens further, some economists worry, the labor market could spiral toward more layoffs as increased joblessness holds back consumer spending.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Dec. 9, 2025

Quasi-Baroque keyboard arpeggios pace a track that holds back, recognizes that “Time doesn’t stop for a sad little girl” and surges as she decides, “This time I think I’m found.”

From New York Times ● Apr. 12, 2024

Olena holds back tears as she talks about her husband’s disappearance.

From Los Angeles Times ● Feb. 24, 2024

Tim holds back the curtain so I can look out into the audience.

From "Shine!" by J.J. and Chris Grabenstein