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

“It kind of siphoned all of that pent-up, closeted stuff that you hold back, that you couldn’t freely express,” she said.

From Slate • May 4, 2026

A properly written contract includes a retainage clause, allowing the homeowner to hold back a percentage of the project cost—typically 10%—until completion.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 25, 2026

He leaned close and reminded me it was my first meeting and I should hold back.

From "Code Name Kingfisher" by Liz Kessler