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.

MarketWatch: Investors once again are faced with a decision to either chase the stock-market rally or hold back.

From MarketWatch • May 12, 2026

As ice shelves become thinner and weaker, they lose some of their ability to hold back the glaciers behind them.

From Science Daily • May 10, 2026

In comparison, Mandava's look seemed to hold back.

From BBC • May 9, 2026

“While higher energy prices are a boon for Canada’s economy given it is a major net producer of oil and gas, the ongoing uncertainty about trade policy continues to hold back sentiment,” they said.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 1, 2026

The kids squealed and giggled and clapped, and I couldn’t hold back a big squeal of my own.

From "The World According to Humphrey" by Betty G. Birney