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.
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
The intelligence to be able to hold back and then to make that run to get on the end of it was incredible.
From BBC • Mar. 20, 2026
"They're renowned for building dams that hold back the flow of water," he said.
From BBC • Mar. 14, 2026
Central bankers fear periods of deflation, in which falling prices lead businesses and households to hold back on spending in anticipation of securing better deals in the future.
From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 4, 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
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From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.