Differences between hold back and hold down
Hold back means to restrain or prevent something from happening, while hold down means to keep something under control or to maintain a job or position.
Meanings and Definitions: hold back vs hold down
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Hold back
- 1Not show emotion.
It was really hard to HOLD BACK the tears.
- 2Prevent something moving forwards or progressing.
Lack of funding HELD the project BACK.
- 3Not disclose information or make it public.
The government HELD BACK the findings of the report for fear of alienating voters.
Hold down
- 1Keep a job.
He's so unreliable that he can never HOLD DOWN a job for more than a couple of months.
- 2Stop someone or something from moving.
It took four of us to HOLD him DOWN and stop the fight.
Usage Examples: hold back, hold down in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
hold back
Example
She tried to hold back her tears during the sad movie.
Example
He holds back his anger when dealing with difficult customers.
hold down
Example
She is able to hold down a full-time job while studying.
Example
He holds down two part-time jobs to support his family.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Hold back
suppress emotions
To control or hide one's feelings or emotions.
Example
He tried to suppress his emotions and not show any anger during the argument.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Hold down
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “hold”
Phrasal Verbs with “down”
- tumble down
- slip down
- hunt down
- wind down
- stick down
Differences in hold back vs hold down: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: hold back or hold down?
In daily conversation, people use hold back more often than hold down. This is because hold back is used in a wider range of situations, such as holding back tears or holding back information. Hold down is less common and mainly used in the context of employment or job positions.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of hold back and hold down
Hold back and hold down are both informal phrases that can be used in casual conversations. However, hold down may be slightly more formal as it is often used in professional contexts.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of hold back and hold down
The tone of hold back and hold down can differ based on context. Hold back often carries a negative or emotional tone when related to restraining oneself or others, while hold down typically has a neutral or positive tone, especially when referring to maintaining a job or position.
