Differences between hold back and push back
Hold back means to restrain or prevent someone or something from moving forward or progressing, while push back means to resist or delay an action or decision.
Meanings and Definitions: hold back vs push back
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.
Push back
- 1To delay or postpone.
If she is having issues again, it could explain why her album is getting pushed back.
- 2To resist or oppose something.
The banks who own the debt are pushing back hard against the German demand for more sacrifice.
Usage Examples: hold back, push back 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.
push back
Example
We might need to push back the meeting to next week.
Example
She pushes back her appointments when she's running late.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Hold back
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Push back
resist change
To oppose or refuse to accept a new idea or way of doing things.
Example
The employees resisted the change in the company's policies, causing delays in implementation.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “hold”
Phrasal Verbs with “push”
Phrasal Verbs with “back”
Differences in hold back vs push back: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: hold back or push back?
Both hold back and push back are commonly used in everyday conversation, but hold back is slightly more common. It's often used to describe emotional restraint or physical obstruction, while push back is more commonly used in situations where there is resistance or opposition to a decision or action.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of hold back and push back
Both hold back and push back are informal phrases that are suitable for casual conversations. However, in more formal settings like business or academic contexts, using alternative expressions can convey a more professional tone.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of hold back and push back
The tone of hold back and push back can differ based on context. Hold back often carries a negative or restrictive tone when related to emotions or physical movement, while push back typically has a defensive or assertive tone, especially when referring to opposing a decision or action.
