withhold

[wɪðˈhəʊld]

withhold Definition

  • 1refuse to give (something that is due to or is desired by another)
  • 2keep back; suppress (a feeling or reaction)

Using withhold: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "withhold" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    The company withheld his final paycheck.

  • Example

    She withheld information from the police.

  • Example

    I can't withhold my excitement for the concert tonight!

withhold Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for withhold

Antonyms for withhold

Phrases with withhold

  • to refrain from making a decision or forming an opinion about something until more information is available

    Example

    I think we should withhold judgment until we have all the facts.

  • to keep back or conceal evidence that could be used in a legal case

    Example

    The prosecutor accused the defendant of withholding evidence.

  • to refuse to pay rent as a form of protest or because of a dispute with the landlord

    Example

    The tenants decided to withhold rent until the landlord fixed the broken plumbing.

Origins of withhold

Old English 'wiðhealdan', from 'wið' meaning 'against' and 'healdan' meaning 'to hold'

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Summary: withhold in Brief

'Withhold' [wɪðˈhəʊld] means to refuse to give something that is due or desired by another, or to suppress a feeling or reaction. It can be used in various contexts, such as withholding payment or information, or withholding judgment until more information is available. 'Withhold' is often used in legal or formal situations, and can also be used informally to mean keeping something to oneself.

How do native speakers use this expression?