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.
In 2024, Maryland adopted a version of Mississippi’s most controversial literacy policy—requiring schools to hold back students if they can’t read adequately by third grade—as part of the state’s new comprehensive literacy policy.
From The Wall Street Journal β Sep. 10, 2026
The estimable podcaster Dwarkesh Patel tweeted last week that “any global agreement to hold back a technology with enormous near-term economic and military benefits will be extremely fragile.”
From The Wall Street Journal β Sep. 8, 2026
As the women sing along some struggle to hold back tears.
From BBC β Aug. 5, 2026
DeArmas, usually so composed, couldn't hold back his tears.
From Barron's β Jul. 7, 2026
Just thinking this makes me so sad I look out the window and hold back tears.
From "Ask the Passengers" by A.S. King
