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.

“I have a watch here with a face that’s causing difficulty. One of the numbers has worked loose and it’s holding back the hand. Do you know anyone who does this kind of repair work?”

From Literature

Mullin is known on Capitol Hill for not holding back, a style of speaking that some describe as combative.

From BBC

I took a deep breath, eased the incense burner I was holding back onto the shelf, and moved out of the shadows.

From Literature

Performing her routine from sophomore year, Chiles closed the meet with a 9.950 and held back tears while getting mobbed by her teammates.

From Los Angeles Times

"They're renowned for building dams that hold back the flow of water," he said.

From BBC