Meaning of the word "hold off" in English

What does "hold off" mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

hold off

US /hoʊld ɔf/

UK /həʊld ɒf/

to delay or postpone something

Example:

•

Can you hold off on making a decision until tomorrow?

•

Let's hold off on the meeting until everyone is available.

Synonym:

postpone delay defer put off reschedule

to prevent someone or something from attacking or advancing

Example:

•

The small army managed to hold off the invaders for days.

•

They tried to hold off the competition by lowering prices.

Synonym:

repel ward off fend off resist withstand