hold hostage

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.

Faced with a stalemate in 2021, Ms. Pelosi agreed to separate a huge tax and climate change package from a bipartisan public works bill that progressives were threatening to hold hostage.

From New York Times • Jan. 3, 2023

“We should not hold hostage cooperation on matters of global concern because of differences between our two countries,” Blinken said.

From Washington Times • Aug. 6, 2022

Your house is a thing—yes, a thing imbued with memory and meaning, but it shouldn’t hold hostage your ability to retire comfortably.

From Slate • Nov. 5, 2014

"Chesapeake is seeking to use their designation as operator as a shield," to stall development and "hold hostage the minerals of the state," Ogwyn said.

From Reuters • Feb. 25, 2014

He has proved in the past that he has the patience, stamina and staying power needed to hold hostage negotiations.

From Time Magazine Archive