Showing results for holds back.

holds back

VERB

repress

Synonyms

WEAK

bit bridle check control curb defer delay deny forbear hold down hold in inhibit keep keep back keep out postpone prevent put off refrain refuse restrain stop suppress withhold

Antonyms

WEAK

let go reveal

VERB

repress

Synonyms

WEAK

bit bridle check control curb defer delay deny forbear hold down hold in hold off inhibit keep keep back keep out postpone prevent put off refrain refuse restrain stop suppress withhold

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.

If hiring appetite weakens further, some economists worry, the labor market could spiral toward more layoffs as increased joblessness holds back consumer spending.

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 9, 2025

In his speech, Sir Keir will say he will “do everything in my power to galvanise growth including getting rid of regulation that needlessly holds back investment”.

From BBC • Oct. 14, 2024

Quasi-Baroque keyboard arpeggios pace a track that holds back, recognizes that “Time doesn’t stop for a sad little girl” and surges as she decides, “This time I think I’m found.”

From New York Times • Apr. 12, 2024

The Wordie ice shelve, which holds back four glaciers near the tip of the Antarctic Peninsula, had a big collapse in 1989, but has lost 87% of its remaining mass since 1997, Davison found.

From Seattle Times • Oct. 12, 2023

She rolls her eyes and holds back a grin.

From "Better Nate Than Ever" by Tim Federle