What are the definitions of “hold back”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 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.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “hold back”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb hold back is to prevent something from moving forward or progressing. It can refer to stopping a person, an object, or an idea from advancing or developing.
What are the different verb forms of “hold back”?
| Root Verb | hold back |
| Third Person Singular Present | holds back |
| Present Participle | holding back |
| Simple Past | held back |
| Past Participle | held back |
Example
She tried to hold back her tears during the sad movie.
Example
He holds back his anger when dealing with difficult customers.
Example
They are holding back the release of the new product until next month.
Example
The teacher held back the student from moving to the next grade.
Example
The athlete was held back by an injury during the competition.
What kind of phrasal verb is “hold back”?
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a transitive and intransitive verb? - A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.) - An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)
Transitive verb
“hold back” is a transitive phrasal verb because it requires a direct object to complete its meaning. The direct object specifies what is being removed, obtained, or eliminated.
Example
She held back her tears during the sad movie.
Example
The teacher held the student back from moving to the next grade.
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb? - A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle. - An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.
Inseparable
“hold back” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.
Example
She held back her tears during the sad movie.
Example
The teacher held the student back from moving to the next grade.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “hold back”?
Good things to know
Does “hold back” have an informal or formal tone?
Hold back is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is appropriate for everyday conversations, as well as more formal settings, such as business meetings or academic discussions.
