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holding back

ADJECTIVE
retaining
Synonyms
STRONG
accommodating arresting cherishing commemorating confining embracing employing engaging having hiring holding keeping owning possessing preserving remembering reserving restraining saving securing seizing suppressing sustaining taking treasuring withholding working
ADJECTIVE
suppressive
Synonyms
WEAK
censoring covering up curbing muffling quelling repressing repressive silencing stifling subduing withholding
NOUN
detention
Synonyms
STRONGEST
arrest custody delay incarceration internment quarantine
STRONG
apprehension bust detainment hindrance immurement impediment pen pickup pinch restraint retention withholding
WEAK
arrestation holding pen keeping in nab time up the river
Antonyms
STRONG
aid assistance help
WEAK
freedom liberation release

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.

Several new signals suggest that—for now—some employers feel the need to replenish their pipelines of entry-level workers after holding back for several seasons.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 22, 2026

But MP Smith said there were still issues holding back the sector.

From BBC • Apr. 8, 2026

There may be more, as Bondi continues to violate the law by holding back some files.

From Salon • Apr. 3, 2026

In Panama, Scott can pursue his own medical agenda without fear of government intervention, something he believes is holding back breakthroughs in the longevity space.

From Slate • Mar. 30, 2026

Another one of his pauses, but this time he seemed to be holding back.

From "Americanah" by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie