1
as in delays
an instance or period of being prevented from going about one's business
there'll be a holdback on production until the new machinery is fully installed
Synonyms & Similar Words
Relevance
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in obstacles
something that makes movement or progress difficult
the only holdback to starting the new job is my contractual commitment to my current position
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
Recent Examples of Synonyms for holdbacks
Noun
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Bayt Almocha had also been expected to open last summer, but delays pushed that plan back to March.—
Heidi Finley, Charlotte Observer, 12 Jan. 2026
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The Covid pandemic snarled airplane assembly at both Boeing and its chief rival, Airbus, with supply chain delays and loss of experienced workers, even after the worst of the health crisis subsided.—
Noun
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Institutions were obstacles to be blamed or bypassed.—
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Ladders can help fish circumvent these obstacles, but learning to navigate them can take the animals days.—
Noun
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In the heart of Round Rock, the Unicorniverse can get quite busy on weekends, with waits of up to 40 minutes for food, so try to go on a weekday.—
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That said, reasonable preparation can help even those familiar with international payment systems avoid high fees, long waits and general confusion.—
Noun
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Yet major technical hurdles remain.—
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One of her biggest hurdles came last year when an injury during club season took her out of the water for a month and a half.—
Noun
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These signs usually indicate several issues like clogs and obstructions or worn out parts.—
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Do yourself a favor and take the time to properly inspect the machine, tighten any fasteners, check for wear on the rotor paddles, scrapers, and skid shoes, and ensure that the auger and chute are free of obstructions.—
Noun
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Authorities installed concrete barriers outside the federal building following protests.—
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These kinetic barriers restrict rate capability and dramatically reduce usable capacity under fast-charging or cold-climate conditions.—
Noun
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Such a link might also provide the quiet word that can avoid more public embarrassments.—
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Vulnerability is currency on reality television, and after a season of exposing their own struggles and embarrassments, the other women are annoyed that Meredith wants to keep up appearances.—
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Cite this Entry
“Holdbacks.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/holdbacks. Accessed 20 Jan. 2026.
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