holds off

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

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 off

Watching the news, she expresses genuine sadness at reports of a tragedy or children with high screen time, but holds off on offering opinions or specific policy goals as first lady.

From BBC ● Jan. 30, 2026

Trump formally accepted Xi’s invitation to visit Beijing in April, which could mean the U.S. holds off on sectoral tariffs related to semiconductors that could rattle that relationship.

From Barron's ● Nov. 25, 2025

Top-ranked Glendora holds off major surprise La Serna to nab the Division 2 team title, 73-99!

From Los Angeles Times ● Nov. 23, 2024

An old-fashioned rap war that unfolded online at lightning speed has sent Kendrick Lamar to No. 1 on Billboard’s latest singles chart, while Taylor Swift easily holds off a challenge from Dua Lipa’s new album.

From New York Times ● May 13, 2024

The longer this storm holds off, the worse it's likely to be.

From The Boy Pilot of the Lakes Nat Morton's Perils by Frank V. Webster

Random Word

Spin the wheel and learn a new word!

Get a word