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Phrasal verbs "hold back" vs "step back"

Differences between hold back and step back

Hold back means to restrain or prevent someone or something from doing something, while step back means to move away from a situation or to stop being involved in it.

Meanings and Definitions: hold back vs step 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.

Step back

  • 1Look at something from a different perspective.

    We should STEP BACK and try to see how our customers will view the scheme.

Usage Examples: hold back, step 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.

step back

Example

Sometimes, it's important to step back and evaluate the situation.

Example

She steps back to get a better view of the painting.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Hold back

restrain oneself

To control or limit one's emotions, actions, or impulses.

Example

She had to restrain herself from yelling at her boss during the meeting.

keep in check

To monitor or control something to prevent it from getting out of hand.

Example

He had to keep his anger in check during the argument to avoid escalating the situation.

hold off

To delay or postpone something.

Example

They decided to hold off on the project until they had more resources and information.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Step back

take a break

To pause or stop doing something for a short period of time.

Example

She needed to take a break from work to recharge and reduce stress.

reassess the situation

To evaluate or reconsider a situation or problem.

Example

After the setback, they decided to reassess the situation and come up with a new plan.

withdraw from involvement

To remove oneself from a situation or activity.

Example

He had to withdraw from involvement in the project due to personal reasons.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “back”

Differences in hold back vs step back: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: hold back or step back?

In daily conversation, people use hold back more often than step back. This is because hold back is used in a variety of situations such as emotions, actions, or events. Step back is less common and is mainly used when we want to describe someone's behavior or attitude towards a situation. So, while both phrases are used, hold back is more common in everyday conversation.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of hold back and step back

Hold back and step back are informal phrases often used in casual conversations. They are suitable for everyday interactions with friends and family. In more formal settings like business or academic contexts, using alternative expressions can convey a more polished tone.

Tone and Implication: The Nuances of hold back and step back

The tone of hold back and step back can differ based on context. Hold back often carries a negative or cautious tone when related to restraining or preventing something, while step back typically has a neutral or positive tone, especially when referring to taking a break or reevaluating a situation.

hold back & step back: Synonyms and Antonyms

Step back

Antonyms

  • rush in
  • charge ahead
  • plunge in
  • forge ahead
  • press on
  • push forward

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