holding back crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're looking for solutions to the clue "holding back crossword clue," you've come to the right place. We provide accurate answers, detailed explanations, and helpful tips to get you unstuck.
Solutions for "holding back crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
CURB: To control or limit something; to hold back or restrain. Often used for emotions or growth.
STEM: To stop the spread or progress of something, like a flow or an advance; to check or hold back.
7 Letters
RESERVE: To hold back or set aside for later use or a specific purpose. It implies a deliberate act of keeping something unreleased.
8 Letters
RESTRAIN: To prevent someone or something from doing something; to keep under control or hold back from action.
SUPPRESS: To forcibly put an end to something; to prevent its development or expression, hence holding it back, often related to emotions or information.
WITHHOLD: To refuse to give (something that is due to or is desired by another); to hold back something that should be provided.
More About "holding back crossword clue"
The phrase "holding back" in a crossword clue often points towards words related to control, restraint, or reservation. Depending on the context of the puzzle, it could refer to physical prevention, emotional inhibition, or even the act of saving something for later use. Crossword setters love to use such versatile phrases to test a solver's vocabulary and their ability to interpret nuances.
Understanding the different facets of "holding back" – whether it's holding back tears (suppress), holding back an attack (restrain), or holding back information (withhold) – is key to cracking the clue. Pay attention to any other words in the clue that might give a hint about the specific type of "holding back" being referenced.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Nuance: Consider if "holding back" refers to physical restraint, emotional control, or keeping something secret. This can narrow down the potential synonyms.
- Check Letter Count First: Always match the possible answers to the given number of letters. This is the most crucial step in crosswords.
- Think of Synonyms and Antonyms: If "holding back" means restraint, think of words that mean the opposite (e.g., release, unleash) to sometimes find a clue by contrast, or directly brainstorm synonyms for restraint.
- Consider Cryptic Meanings: If it's a cryptic crossword, "holding back" might be part of a wordplay, like a hidden word or an anagram indicator.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "holding back" mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, "holding back" typically refers to concepts of restraint, control, suppression, prevention, or reserving something for later. It can apply to emotions, actions, information, or physical objects.
How do I find answers for clues related to restraint?
Look for synonyms of control, limit, stop, prevent, or keep. Consider the number of letters required and whether the clue implies a physical, emotional, or informational context. Words like CURB, STEM, RESTRAIN, and SUPPRESS are common answers.
Are there common synonyms for "holding back" in crosswords?
Yes, common synonyms include check, curb, stem, restrain, inhibit, suppress, reserve, withhold, and deter. The specific answer will depend on the nuance of the clue and the letter count.