hold ourselves back

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "hold ourselves back" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing self-restraint or limiting one's actions or emotions in a particular situation. Example: "Sometimes, we need to hold ourselves back to avoid saying something we might regret later."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

38 human-written examples

We hold ourselves back without even realizing it.

Harvard Business Review

When we worry about and hesitate over every little possible grammar mistake, we hold ourselves back.

University of California, Berkeley

We hold ourselves back at work and don't go after what we want.

The Guardian

"We had to deliberately hold ourselves back," Mr. Gallo said, adding later, "Your function is to serve the play.

The New York Times

If you continue to shoot while we hold ourselves back, we will respond accordingly when the 48 hours end.

The New York Times

Friendship aside, though, I think Sheryl is right that we, as women, tend to hold ourselves back.

The Washington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

22 human-written examples

Reo Wilde added, "We're one of the only sports that holds ourselves back".

The New York Times - Sports

With each of these excuse categories, Taffer goes into detail about how we might "BS ourselves" into holding ourselves back from the things we really want to do.

Forbes

In many ways, we have held ourselves back.

Huffington Post

But as we get older and learn to fear failure, we start holding ourselves back and attempting fewer new things.

Huffington Post

What's harder to realize is that we're one of them -- often holding ourselves back in the same way.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "hold ourselves back" to convey a sense of self-imposed limitation, where internal factors are the primary cause of restraint. For example, "We often "hold ourselves back" due to fear of failure".

Common error

Avoid using "hold ourselves back" when the limitation is imposed by external factors. Instead, consider phrases like "were held back" or "constrained by".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "hold ourselves back" functions as a reflexive verb phrase. According to Ludwig AI, it describes an action where the subject (ourselves) is also the recipient of the action (holding back). The examples from Ludwig demonstrate its use in expressing self-imposed limitations or inhibitions.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Formal & Business

15%

Science

5%

Less common in

Academia

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "hold ourselves back" is a common and grammatically correct reflexive verb phrase used to describe self-imposed limitations. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and provides numerous examples from reputable sources, indicating a neutral register suitable for various contexts. The primary contexts include News & Media and Formal & Business writing. To avoid misusing the phrase, ensure that the limitation is indeed self-imposed and not due to external factors. Consider alternatives like "restrain ourselves" or "limit ourselves" to fine-tune the intended meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

hold back

A shorter version of the phrase, implying a similar meaning but lacking the reflexive emphasis.

restrain ourselves

Implies a conscious effort to control one's actions or impulses.

keep ourselves from

Focuses on consciously avoiding a particular action or behavior.

limit ourselves

Focuses on setting boundaries or restrictions on one's potential or actions.

inhibit ourselves

Highlights the suppression of natural impulses or expressions.

keep ourselves in check

Emphasizes the need for self-monitoring and control.

repress our feelings

Specifically refers to the suppression of emotions.

curb our enthusiasm

Specifically refers to reducing excitement or eagerness.

suppress our potential

Focuses on preventing the full development of one's abilities.

stifle our growth

Highlights the prevention of personal or professional development.

FAQs

What does it mean to "hold ourselves back"?

To "hold ourselves back" means to consciously or unconsciously limit our actions, potential, or expression, often due to fear, lack of confidence, or other internal barriers.

How can I avoid "holding myself back"?

To avoid "holding yourself back", identify your fears and limiting beliefs, challenge them, and take small steps outside your comfort zone. Consider seeking support from mentors or therapists.

What are some synonyms for "hold ourselves back"?

Synonyms include "restrain ourselves", "limit ourselves", and "inhibit ourselves". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "holding ourselves back" always negative?

While often negative, sometimes "holding ourselves back" can be a sign of maturity or strategic thinking, especially when avoiding impulsive reactions or harmful behaviors. It's about discerning when restraint is beneficial versus detrimental.