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Withhold: meaning, definitions and examples

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withhold

 

[wɪðˈhəʊld ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

in legal terms

To hold back; to keep from being disclosed or revealed. To refuse to provide or give something.

Synonyms

conceal, retain, suppress.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
withhold

Appropriate when intentionally keeping something back or not giving something that is due or expected. Often used in contexts involving information, wages, or permissions.

  • The company decided to withhold the information about the merger until the deal was finalized; She could not withhold her laughter during the serious meeting
suppress

Implies forcibly putting an end to something, often involving emotions, information, or public displays. Can carry a negative connotation, especially in political or emotional contexts.

  • The government tried to suppress the protest by imposing a curfew; He struggled to suppress his anger during the heated argument
conceal

Used when hiding something with an intention to keep it secret or out of sight. Often has a context of secrecy or deception.

  • He tried to conceal the truth about his past from his new friends; The thief concealed the stolen goods under his coat
retain

Relevant when keeping possession of something, continuing to have something, or remembering information. Generally neutral in tone.

  • The company managed to retain its top employees despite the economic downturn; She has a great ability to retain detailed information

Examples of usage

  • He decided to withhold the evidence until the trial.
  • The company withheld information about the merger from the public.
  • The government can withhold certain documents for security reasons.
Context #2 | Verb

in financial terms

To deduct or retain money for a specific purpose, such as taxes or payments.

Synonyms

deduct, deduct, retain.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
withhold

Use when you intentionally do not give someone something they are supposed to receive. It often has a negative connotation.

  • The company decided to withhold the employee's bonus due to poor performance.
  • Parents can withhold privileges if their children do not follow the rules.
deduct

Use when you subtract an amount of money from a total, often for tax or accounting purposes.

  • The bank will deduct the service fee from your account balance.
  • You can deduct certain expenses when calculating your taxable income.
retain

Use when you keep possession or continue to hold something over time. It can be used in both neutral and positive contexts.

  • Employees are encouraged to retain important documents for future reference.
  • The lawyer was retained to handle the case.

Examples of usage

  • The employer will withhold a portion of your salary for taxes.
  • The bank may withhold funds until a check clears.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from Old English 'wiþholdan', meaning to hold back.
  • It’s formed with 'with' (against) and 'hold,' indicating a sense of stopping something from being given.
  • This term has been in use since the 14th century, showing its long-standing presence in the English language.

Legal Context

  • In legal terms, it often refers to withholding taxes or information that is required by law.
  • Child custody hearings can involve parties withholds or seeks to limit access to relevant information.
  • Withholding evidence in a trial can lead to severe penalties for the responsible party.

Psychology

  • In relationships, withholding affection or communication can indicate deeper emotional distress.
  • Some psychologists indicate that withholding can serve as a control mechanism in interpersonal dynamics.
  • Individuals may withhold feelings or opinions due to fear of rejection or conflict.

Literature

  • Withholding information is a common literary technique that builds suspense in storytelling.
  • Authors often use characters that withhold their true intentions to create intrigue in narratives.
  • In poetry, the act of withholding can emphasize emotions or themes by leaving certain details unsaid.

Pop Culture

  • TV shows often depict characters who withhold secrets, creating drama and tension within plots.
  • In movies, characters that withhold vital information can serve as antagonists or complex protagonists.
  • In music, songs often explore themes of withholding love or affection, tapping into deep emotional experiences.

Translations

Translations of the word "withhold" in other languages:

🇵🇹 reter

🇮🇳 रोकना

🇩🇪 zurückhalten

🇮🇩 menahan

🇺🇦 утримувати

🇵🇱 wstrzymywać

🇯🇵 保留する (ほりゅうする)

🇫🇷 retenir

🇪🇸 retener

🇹🇷 alıkoymak

🇰🇷 보류하다

🇸🇦 يحتفظ

🇨🇿 zadržet

🇸🇰 zadržať

🇨🇳 保留 (bǎoliú)

🇸🇮 zadržati

🇮🇸 halda aftur

🇰🇿 ұстап қалу

🇬🇪 შეკავება

🇦🇿 saxlamaq

🇲🇽 retener

Word Frequency Rank

Position #9,620 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.