Holdout Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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holdout
[ˈhoʊldaʊt ]
Definition
resisting party
A holdout refers to an individual or group that refuses to comply or agree with a collective decision or agreement, often in a negotiation context. This term can apply in various scenarios, such as business deals, political decisions, or legal settlements where one party is unwilling to concede or accept the terms that others have agreed upon. Holdouts can significantly impact the outcome of negotiations, as they may cause delays and require additional efforts to reach a consensus.
Synonyms
disputant, obstructionist, refuser.
Examples of usage
- The holdout refused to sign the contract.
- Several holdouts are delaying the merger.
- The negotiations reached a stalemate because of the holdout.
- The company faced challenges due to holdouts in the union negotiations.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Pop Culture
- In film and television, characters described as holdouts often symbolize integrity or personal conviction, such as in courtroom dramas.
- Music has referenced the concept, with songs illustrating the struggle between conformity and staying true to oneself.
Psychology
- People who are holdouts can sometimes exhibit traits of resilience and are seen as standing firm in their beliefs, which can be both positive and negative.
- Psychological research suggests that holdout behavior relates to cognitive dissonance, where individuals experience discomfort from conflicting beliefs.
History
- Throughout history, various holdout situations marked significant events, like the holdout of soldiers during wartime, symbolizing bravery and defiance.
- In labor negotiations, a holdout can alter the course of strikes or agreements, showcasing the power of individual resistance.
Business
- In negotiations or mergers, holdouts can significantly impact outcomes, often risking deals if one party remains firm on certain demands.
- The term is common in real estate, where a holdout seller refuses to sell property, influencing development and market dynamics.
Origin of 'holdout'
Main points about word origin
- The term originated in the late 19th century, combining 'hold' meaning to keep something in a particular position, and 'out' suggesting resistance.
- Initially, it described someone who physically stayed in place while others moved away, reflecting their stubbornness.
- As language evolved, 'holdout' also began to describe negotiations where one party refuses to accept a deal.
The term 'holdout' originated from the combination of the word 'hold,' meaning to maintain possession or control, and the suffix '-out,' which indicates exclusion or withdrawal from a situation or agreement. The earliest usages date back to the early 20th century, often in legal and financial contexts. Initially used to describe a party in a dispute who maintained their position despite pressures or negotiations, 'holdout' has evolved to encompass broader scenarios including labor negotiations, real estate deals, and other forms of collective bargaining. Over time, its connotation has developed to imply a sense of stubbornness or firmness in one's stance, often at the expense of collective agreement or progress.