hold off

Definition of hold offnext

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of hold off That might be a bit too long to hold off, as Lombard has typically required an adjustment period offensively when promoted to a new level in the minors. Gary Phillips, New York Daily News, 25 July 2026 Monday earned an advisory and the threat of a new string, but the reprieve may hold off another day or so with Friday and Saturday the most likely days to trigger another advisory. Howard Cohen, Miami Herald, 22 July 2026 Paramount, in a statement, said the restraining order simply preserves the status quo, which Paramount had already pledged to do in court papers last week that offered to hold off on finalizing the transaction. Meg James, Los Angeles Times, 20 July 2026 Customers usually hold off on iPhone purchases right before Apple’s fall event, but things could be a little different this year. Jibin Joseph, PC Magazine, 20 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for hold off
Recent Examples of Synonyms for hold off
Verb
  • Once there, give your eyes at least 20 minutes to adapt to the darkness and resist checking your phone.
    Jamie Carter, Forbes.com, 2 Aug. 2026
  • The barrel-leg silhouette gives them a sleeker shape, while the mid-weight fabric feels soft and resists wrinkles.
    Jeaneen Russell, PEOPLE, 2 Aug. 2026
Verb
  • Many have delayed large home renovations, put off replacing major appliances and looked for practical ways to trim monthly expenses as everyday costs remain elevated.
    Angelica Leicht, CBS News, 29 July 2026
  • He’s been put off by Rhaenyra but not in any really humiliating way.
    Erik Kain, Forbes.com, 27 July 2026
Verb
  • Paige turned back around to find Nikki Bella hitting her with a clothesline.
    Ryan Gaydos, FOXNews.com, 2 Aug. 2026
  • Authorities used water cannons, tear gas and warning shots to try to turn back migrants.
    Sergio Rodrigo Ruíz, Los Angeles Times, 1 Aug. 2026
Verb
  • The Athletic had reported earlier in the day that Liverpool are preparing to table an opening bid for Paris Saint-Germain winger Bradley Barcola.
    James Pearce, New York Times, 30 July 2026
  • The firm had been aiming to close the deal by September but agreed to table its takeover — perhaps until next spring — to allow a fiercer than expected challenge from California Atty.
    Meg James, Los Angeles Times, 25 July 2026
Verb
  • If history is any guide, before the restrictions go into effect, the SAFE for Kids Act may have to withstand lawsuits, similar to those filed in other states that have aimed to crack down on social media.
    Cayla Bamberger, New York Daily News, 1 Aug. 2026
  • Investing in overall lawn health can help homeowners cultivate a more resilient lawn fit to withstand extreme weather.
    Abby Monteil, The Spruce, 1 Aug. 2026
Verb
  • Additionally, there were large branches broken off trees in the yard of a home.
    Bryan Lynn, CBS News, 29 July 2026
  • Second-year running back Jarquez Hunter broke off a run for a long gain.
    Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 27 July 2026
Verb
  • Grassroots groups that help young people turn away from gun violence recently worked with Junior Cee Niko-Semos to build his résumé.
    Alicia Victoria Lozano, NBC news, 2 Aug. 2026
  • Mali then turned away from its traditional Western partners to Russia — first to the Wagner Group, a private organization that acted as Russia’s diplomatic proxy.
    ABC News, ABC News, 31 July 2026
Verb
  • Instead of deferring taxes now and paying later, taxes are paid upfront so future qualified withdrawals can potentially come out tax-free.
    Joel Barjenbruch, Forbes.com, 4 Aug. 2026
  • But holding back defers crucial conversations about goals, methods, and the limits of American aid.
    Dafna H. Rand, Foreign Affairs, 4 Aug. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Hold off.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/hold%20off. Accessed 6 Aug. 2026.

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