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.

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

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

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

“It seems like a holding pattern for both the bulls and the bears,” he said.

From MarketWatch • Dec. 18, 2025

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