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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.

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

But here’s what it means if it holds off again.

From MarketWatch • Jan. 14, 2026

Meanwhile, Bessent, the newly minted 'cop of calm', suggested a possible extension to the 90-day tariff truce if Beijing holds off on rare-earth restrictions.

From Barron's • Oct. 16, 2025

The arrival of fuel holds off that collapse temporarily, but leaders of the aid effort say reserves remain dangerously low, and there is still a deepening hunger crisis.

From New York Times • May 10, 2024

Thereupon she puts hands upon the dunce, kisses him close, grows sudden red, stammers, holds off, has the wit to make sure—and bundles out, blazing with her news.

From The Forest Lovers by Hewlett, Maurice Henry