Basic Details
Word: Withhold
Part of Speech: Verb
Meaning: To keep something back or not give it to someone.
Synonyms: Retain, hold back, suppress
Antonyms: Give, release, allow
Idioms and Phrases
- Withhold judgement: To suspend making an opinion about something until more information is available. Example: "While we are not sure about the facts, lets withhold judgement until we know more."
- Withhold affection: To purposely not show love or care towards someone. Example: "She decided to withhold affection until he apologised for his mistake."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The teacher chose to withhold the results until every student had completed the exam.
Example 2: Its not nice to withhold information from your friends, especially if it concerns them.
Example 3: He decided to withhold his opinion during the discussion to avoid conflict.
Fun Fact
The word "withhold" comes from the Old English word "withholdan," which means to "hold back" or "remain." This term has been used for centuries to describe the action of keeping something away from others.
Famous Quote
"The only thing we have to fear is fear itself." Franklin D. Roosevelt (This relates to withholding because fear can sometimes cause us to withhold our true feelings and actions.)
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "withhold" mean?
a) To give freely
b) To keep something back
c) To throw away
d) To fasten down
Answer: b) To keep something back
2. Which of these is a synonym of "withhold"?
a) Give
b) Retain
c) Release
d) Allow
Answer: b) Retain
3. Which of the following is an antonym of "withhold"?
a) Keep
b) Retain
c) Give
d) Hold back
Answer: c) Give
4. Which sentence uses "withhold" correctly?
a) She will withhold the cookies to share later.
b) He decided to withhold his homework to the teacher.
c) You shouldn't withhold important news from your family.
d) The child will withhold his toys to play.
Answer: c) You shouldn't withhold important news from your family.
5. What does "withhold judgement" mean?
a) Make a decision immediately
b) Delay forming an opinion
c) Express your feelings openly
d) Ignore the facts
Answer: b) Delay forming an opinion
