What does the phrasal verb “hold back from” mean?

What are the definitions of “hold back from”?

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

• 1. Not allow yourself to do something.

  I had to HOLD BACK FROM losing my temper with them.

What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “hold back from”?

The most common meaning of the phrasal verb hold back from is to not allow yourself to do something, usually because it is not appropriate or could cause problems. This can refer to controlling emotions, actions, or words.

What are the different verb forms of “hold back from”?

Root Verb	hold back from
Third Person Singular Present	holds back from
Present Participle	holding back from
Simple Past	held back from
Past Participle	held back from

Example

I always hold back from arguing with my boss.

Example

She holds back from expressing her true feelings.

Example

He is holding back from telling her the truth.

Example

Yesterday, they held back from confronting their neighbor.

Example

She had held back from sharing her opinion during the meeting.

What kind of phrasal verb is “hold back from”?

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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.)

Intransitive verb

“hold back from” is an intransitive phrasal verb because it doesn't require an object to complete its meaning. It forms a complete sentence without an object.

Example

I held back from yelling at him.

Example

She held back from crying during the movie.

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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 from” 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

I held back from yelling at him.

Example

She held back from crying during the movie.

What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “hold back from”?

Hold back tears

To try not to cry or show that you are upset.

Example

She held back tears as she said goodbye to her family.

Hold back laughter

To try not to laugh or show amusement.

Example

During the awkward situation, he held back laughter to avoid offending anyone.

Hold back anger

To try not to show or express anger.

Example

He held back anger when he found out his car had been damaged.

Good things to know

Does “hold back from” have an informal or formal tone?

Hold back from 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 in a professional or academic environment.

What are synonyms of antonyms to the phrasal verb “hold back from”?

Synonyms

• refrain
• restrain
• control
• withhold
• curb
• check
• inhibit
• resist
• suppress
• keep back

Antonyms

• reveal
• disclose
• show
• unleash
• release
• surrender
• yield
• express
• let out
• give in