hold it back

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "hold it back" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to restraining or controlling an emotion, reaction, or physical action. Example: "She tried to hold it back, but the tears streamed down her face."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Hold it back.

The New York Times

I can't hold it back.

The Guardian

He can't hold it back.

The New Yorker

He just couldn't hold it back.

The Guardian - Music

"Why did they suddenly hold it back?

The New York Times

Only now it is threatening to hold it back.

The New York Times

They also sense that any country attempting to hold it back risks looking foolish and technophobic.

The Economist

If they and their friends in government try to hold it back, everyone will suffer.

The Economist

But mismanagement, red tape and corruption continued to hold it back.

The Economist

But they were persuaded to hold it back and remake the songs in a professional studio.

The New York Times - Arts

The addition of large institutional players should help the market evolve, rather than hold it back.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "hold it back" to describe emotional restraint, consider the intensity of the emotion and whether a more specific verb like "suppress" or "contain" might be more appropriate for clarity.

Common error

While "hold it back" is versatile, avoid overuse in formal contexts. Opt for more precise and sophisticated synonyms like "retard", "impede", or "constrain" to elevate your writing's professionalism.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "hold it back" functions primarily as a phrasal verb indicating an action of restraining, preventing, or suppressing something. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability in various contexts. The phrase's versatility allows it to describe both physical and emotional restraint.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

18%

Wiki

17%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

"Hold it back" is a versatile phrasal verb used to describe restraining, preventing, or suppressing something. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely applicable, though it is most frequently found in News & Media. While generally neutral in tone, consider using more precise synonyms like "impede" or "constrain" in formal writing. Remember to be mindful of overuse and choose alternatives to enhance clarity and sophistication. Ultimately, "hold it back" serves as a useful tool for conveying the exertion of control to prevent undesirable outcomes.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

restrain it

This alternative emphasizes controlling or limiting something, aligning with the concept of holding back.

suppress it

Focuses on preventing something from being expressed or known, similar to containing or holding back.

contain it

Highlights the act of keeping something within limits, like holding something back from spreading or escalating.

keep it in check

This alternative emphasizes maintaining control or regulation, akin to holding something back from exceeding certain boundaries.

curb it

This suggests restraining or controlling something undesirable, much like holding back a negative impulse or trend.

impede its progress

This focuses on slowing or hindering something's advancement, similar to holding something back from moving forward.

hinder its development

This emphasizes obstructing the growth or evolution of something, like holding back a project or idea.

stifle it

This conveys suppressing or preventing something from developing, akin to holding back potential or creativity.

keep it under wraps

This suggests maintaining secrecy or concealment, like holding back information or plans from being revealed.

put a lid on it

This informal alternative emphasizes suppressing or ending something, similar to holding back an unwanted situation.

FAQs

How can I use "hold it back" in a sentence?

You can use "hold it back" to describe restraining an emotion, preventing progress, or keeping something secret. For instance, "She tried to "hold it back", but the tears started flowing", or "Lack of funding is "holding it back" from reaching its full potential".

What are some alternatives to "hold it back"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives such as "restrain it", "suppress it", or "impede its progress".

Is "hold it back" formal or informal?

"Hold it back" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, in highly formal writing, consider more precise synonyms for enhanced clarity and sophistication.

What's the difference between ""hold it back"" and "take it back"?

"Hold it back" means to restrain or prevent something, whereas "take it back" means to retract a statement or return something.