hold back crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're stuck on the "hold back" crossword clue, you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of potential answers, categorized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to guide you to the perfect solution for your puzzle.
Solutions for "hold back crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
CURB: To restrain or control something, often impulses or growth.
5 Letters
LIMIT: To restrict or set boundaries, preventing further progress or expansion.
CHECK: To stop or slow down the progress of something; to restrain.
6 Letters
DETAIN: To keep someone or something from proceeding; to hold in custody.
HINDER: To create difficulties for someone or something, resulting in delay or obstruction.
IMPEDE: To delay or obstruct (someone or something).
STIFLE: To make (someone) unable to breathe properly; to prevent or constrain (an activity or idea).
7 Letters
REPRESS: To restrain, prevent, or inhibit the expression of (a feeling, impulse, or idea).
CONTROL: The power to influence or direct people's behavior or the course of events.
CONTAIN: To hold or include (something) within limits.
8 Letters
RESTRAIN: To prevent (someone or something) from doing something; keep under control or check.
SUPPRESS: To forcibly put an end to; to prevent the development, action, or expression of something.
WITHHOLD: Refuse to give (something that is due to or is desired by another).
More About "hold back crossword clue"
"Hold back" is a versatile phrase that can appear in many contexts within a crossword puzzle, making it a challenging but rewarding clue to solve. It often implies a sense of restraint, prevention, or delay. Common scenarios include holding back emotions (e.g., tears, anger), holding back progress or development, or holding back information or a payment. Understanding these nuances is key to identifying the precise answer.
The solution can range from a simple verb like CURB or LIMIT, implying control or restriction, to more complex terms such as SUPPRESS or WITHHOLD, suggesting a more active denial or prevention. Pay close attention to the word count and any intersecting letters, as these will often narrow down the possibilities significantly. Crossword setters love to use synonyms that fit perfectly with various interpretations of "hold back."
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Context: Does the clue imply holding back an emotion (STIFLE, REPRESS), an object or person (DETAIN, WITHHOLD), or progress (IMPEDE, HINDER)? The specific context is crucial.
- Count the Letters Carefully: Once you have a potential answer in mind, always double-check that its letter count exactly matches the required number. This is your primary filter.
- Look for Intersecting Letters: The letters revealed by solved intersecting clues are your best friends. They will often eliminate incorrect synonyms and confirm the right answer.
- Consider Phrasal Verbs: "Hold back" itself is a phrasal verb. Sometimes the answer might be another single word, but occasionally, the solution could be a less common synonym that fits the phrasal nature.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'hold back' typically imply in a crossword clue?
In crosswords, 'hold back' often points to answers related to restraint, control, suppression, or delaying action. It can refer to physical confinement, emotional repression, or limiting progress. Context clues like 'emotions', 'growth', or 'a secret' are vital for precision.
Are there common synonyms for 'hold back' used in crosswords?
Yes, common synonyms include CURB, RESTRAIN, SUPPRESS, DETER, IMPEDE, DETAIN, LIMIT, and WITHHOLD. The specific answer will depend on the given number of letters and other intersecting clues in the puzzle.
How can I deduce the correct answer if multiple words fit 'hold back'?
Always use the intersecting letters from other clues as your primary guide. Additionally, consider the specific nuance of the clue – 'hold back tears' might lead to STIFLE, while 'hold back a payment' could indicate WITHHOLD. The letter count is paramount.