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.

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

Growth lost momentum in the second half of 2025 as consumers, anxious about tax increases and rising unemployment, held back.

From BBC

Growth had already lost momentum in the second half of last year as consumers, anxious about possible tax increases and rising unemployment, held back.

From BBC

"Noma has taken big steps to transform the culture over many years," Redzepi said in the video that showed him apologising to staff, some of whom were holding back tears.

From Barron's