IPA

Dictionary definition of withhold

To deliberately hold back, refuse, or abstain from giving or providing something that is expected, deserved, or requested.
"He chose to withhold his true feelings and kept a neutral expression."

Detailed meaning of withhold

It involves intentionally retaining or keeping back information, resources, privileges, or rights. When someone withholds, they choose to retain or deny access to something that could be shared or granted. It can be applied to various contexts, such as withholding information, withholding payment, or withholding permission. "Withhold" implies a deliberate and purposeful action, often driven by factors such as control, discretion, power, or the desire to influence a situation or individual. By withholding, one refrains from delivering or revealing something that is deemed necessary or anticipated, creating a sense of restriction, denial, or secrecy.

Example sentences of withhold

1. The teacher decided to withhold the test results until the following week.
2. The government was accused of trying to withhold important information from the public.
3. The company threatened to withhold the employees' bonuses if they didn't meet their targets.
4. She had to withhold her laughter during the serious meeting.
5. The witness was reluctant to withhold any information that could help the investigation.
6. The judge decided to withhold the evidence until further notice.

History and etymology of withhold

The verb 'withhold' derives from the Old English word 'wiðhealdan,' where 'wið' means against or away, and 'healdan' means to hold or keep. Over time, this term evolved into the Middle English 'withholden,' which continued to carry the idea of holding back or restraining something. In its current form, 'withhold' still retains its ancestral meaning of intentionally refraining from giving or providing something that is expected or deserved.

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Further usage examples of withhold

1. The doctor advised her to withhold from eating any solid food before the surgery.
2. The company policy required employees to withhold a percentage of their salary for taxes.
3. The parent chose to withhold dessert as a form of discipline.
4. The charity organization decided to withhold funding until they received a detailed project proposal.
5. He had to withhold his excitement until the official announcement was made.
6. The bank has the authority to withhold a portion of your deposit as a service fee.
7. The lawyer advised his client to withhold any incriminating information during the trial.
8. The committee decided to withhold approval until further investigation was conducted.
9. The child tried to withhold the truth about breaking the vase, but the pieces were a dead giveaway.
10. The company decided to withhold the product launch until the marketing campaign was ready.
11. The school principal had to withhold the student's report card due to a disciplinary issue.
12. The negotiator warned that they might withhold their support unless their demands were met.
13. The landlord threatened to withhold the security deposit due to damages caused by the tenant.
14. They may withhold approval until all requirements are thoroughly met, Sam.
15. Should we withhold information to avoid panic spreading quickly? he asked.
16. In protest, workers withhold labor, demanding better pay and safer conditions.
17. She decides to withhold praise, making the team earn their accolades, Joe.
18. Parents sometimes withhold treats until children finish all their vegetables.
19. To test patience, mentors often withhold answers, urging students to think.
20. Landlords can't withhold keys if tenants have paid rent and met conditions.
21. He said, 'Banks occasionally withhold funds during investigation periods.'
22. Doctors often withhold bad news, revealing it when the time feels right.
23. They choose to withhold endorsement until they're sure of the candidate's integrity.
24. Employers mustn't withhold wages; it's illegal and morally wrong, Alice.