hold back

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.

Really, we’re just watching McKellen give a bravura, scene-gobbling performance that doesn’t hold back one iota.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 9, 2026

Worries about the impact of artificial intelligence on the job market are another reason for workers to hold back on higher pay demands.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 1, 2026

Italy's World Cup heartbreak was crystallised in the tear-streaked face of coach Rino Gattuso, who struggled to hold back his emotions after the national team's defeat.

From BBC • Apr. 1, 2026

That leaves the BOJ in a familiar bind: Hike too soon and risk clipping fragile growth, or hold back and risk damaging household confidence, plus U.S. scrutiny if the yen weakens excessively.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 24, 2026

Zheng’s face screwed up, as if he was trying to hold back some emotion.

From "The Boy Who Met a Whale" by Nizrana Farook