holdback
Definition
- Noun:
- An obstacle or hindrance: "holdback" refers to something that prevents progress or movement forward.
- A device that prevents a door from closing: In American English, "holdback" is a mechanism that holds a door open or prevents it from shutting.
Usage Examples
- Noun:
- The lack of funding was a major holdback on the project. (An obstacle that slowed progress.)
- He installed a holdback on the garage door so it would stay open. (A device that keeps the door from closing.)
Advanced Usage
- "to act as a holdback": to function as an obstacle or restraint.
- His fear of failure acted as a holdback to his career advancement. (His fear prevented him from progressing.)
Variants and Related Words
- Hold back (verb phrase): to restrain or delay something or someone.
- She tried to hold back her tears during the speech. (She restrained her tears.)
- The project was held back by bad weather. (The project was delayed.)
Synonyms
- Obstacle: something that blocks or hinders progress.
- Hindrance: a thing that provides resistance or difficulty.
- Restraint: a measure that limits or controls action.
Related Idioms
- No holds barred: without restrictions or limits.
- The debate was no holds barred, with both candidates attacking fiercely. (There were no restraints on the arguments.)
Notes
- The noun "holdback" is less common than the verb phrase "hold back." In everyday speech, "obstacle" or "hindrance" is more frequently used.
- In American English, the specific meaning of a door-holding device is technical and may be used in construction or hardware contexts.