HOLD OFF Synonyms: 82 Similar and Opposite Words

hold off

verb

Definition of hold off

as in to resist

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Dissimilar Words

as in to put off

Related Words

Dissimilar Words

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 Martin noted that the city used to await results from second-round tests for live bacteria before ordering such cleanups but this year decided not to hold off. — ABC News, 14 July 2026 Djokovic will hold off on the career retrospective for the time being. — Ava Wallace, New York Times, 7 July 2026 As the second half began, Cape Verde continued to hold off the Argentinians and managed a couple of opportunities on the opposition’s goal, though nothing that overly troubled Emiliano Martínez. — Jacob Lev, CNN Money, 3 July 2026 Generally, this occurs around late winter or early spring, but if there's still a risk of severe frost, then hold off until the colder weather has passed. — Helena Madden, Martha Stewart, 2 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for hold off

Recent Examples of Synonyms for hold off

Verb

If someone pushes back, resist turning it into a battle for dominance.

— Tarot.com, The Orlando Sentinel, 27 July 2026
And, apparently, her husband Prince Harry couldn’t resist the opportunity to crash.

— Meg Walters, InStyle, 26 July 2026

Definition of resist

Verb

So, when Thursday’s term sheet was sent to the Blazers, the team was put off by asks from the city, particularly the $3 million annual fee for a property tax offset and a requirement that the team hires union workers.

— Jason Quick, New York Times, 21 July 2026
Don’t be surprised if your teen is angry or put off by the conversation.

— Sherri Gordon, Parents, 21 July 2026

Definition of put off

Verb

The front-9 and the beginning of the back-9 holes play mostly away from the coastline, but play moves back towards the Moray Firth on the par-4 13th, hugging the waterline for the 14th, 15th, and 16th holes before turning back towards the clubhouse.

— Zach Schenfisch, Forbes.com, 20 July 2026
As the clock ticked down, Boyle took off his headphones, dropped the microphone and turned back into a student, rushing the field with his classmates.

— Pete Sampson, New York Times, 20 July 2026

Definition of turn back

Verb

But with Farage's fiercely anti-EU Reform UK party (previously called The Brexit Party) seeing major success in recent local elections, and Brexit still a divisive issue for the country, few politicians have indicated any will to even table the idea of holding another referendum.

— Frank Andrews, CBS News, 23 June 2026
After a judge blocked the plan and as bipartisan backlash grew, the fund seemed to be tabled.

— Tracy Grant, Encyclopedia Britannica, 9 June 2026

Definition of table

Verb

Could the temporary seating at BMO Field actually withstand the number of people All those fears were quelled when Toronto put on six memorable matchday experiences, along with raucous watch parties throughout the city.

— Adam Crafton, New York Times, 20 July 2026
Unlike traditional nail polish, gel can withstand any of your final summer adventures without chipping or scuffing.

— Odeya Pinkus, InStyle, 19 July 2026

Definition of withstand

Verb

The plastic can break off and leave a mess behind, or it may be accidentally ingested by a pet or child, Gach warns.

— Wendy Rose Gould, Martha Stewart, 17 July 2026
The 'why' behind airline safety rules Local Greek media reported that a piece of the engine had broken off and that debris smashed the window, quickly decompressing the cabin, which led to part of Karović's body being sucked out of the window.

— Kathleen Wong, USA Today, 14 July 2026

Definition of break off

Verb

The next day, Blazers president Dewayne Hankins deferred questions through team spokesperson Charles Boyle, who said the city’s depiction of the Blazers is misleading.

— Jason Quick, New York Times, 21 July 2026
And in Minnesota, state officials have been executing a thorough corrective action plan to defray CMS concerns that have led the agency to defer some $260 million in federal money and to threaten future cuts.

— ABC News, ABC News, 21 July 2026