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holds back

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

VERB

repress

Synonyms

WEAK

bit bridle check control curb defer delay deny forbear hold down hold in hold off inhibit keep keep back keep out postpone prevent put off refrain refuse restrain stop suppress withhold

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.

Those could include lifting Iran-related sanctions on China, even as Xi holds back on demanding Trump put an end to the war, which is more than two months old.

From MarketWatch • May 13, 2026

Advocates say DEI counters implicit bias that holds back historically disadvantaged groups, helps companies better relate to their customers and unlocks hidden talent.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 13, 2026

McNamara acknowledged that a stigma of modular as low quality holds back an embrace of the model.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 27, 2025

In his speech, Sir Keir will say he will “do everything in my power to galvanise growth including getting rid of regulation that needlessly holds back investment”.

From BBC • Oct. 14, 2024

But to her credit, she holds back and instead says, “I’m so sorry. This seems so unfair, La. You have to deal with all that pressure from your grandmother.”

From "Split the Sky" by Marie Arnold