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.

Networks typically hold back some commercial inventory for big events in case audience levels fall short of what advertisers are guaranteed.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 18, 2026

Shutting down the top models could hold back Anthropic as it prepares for an initial public offering as soon as this fall if users turn to other models.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 13, 2026

Erick Erickson, the conservative radio host and founder of the RedState political blog, did not hold back.

From Salon • Jun. 3, 2026

“Recent increases for long-term interest rates will continue to hold back home buyer demand,” Robert Dietz, the trade group’s chief economist said in a statement.

From Barron's • May 19, 2026

I squeezed my eyes shut, trying and failing to hold back the tears oozing out.

From "Bye Forever, I Guess" by Jodi Meadows