Basic Details
Word: Withhold
Part of Speech: Verb
Meaning: To refuse to give something that is expected or wanted.
Synonyms: Retain, keep back, hold back
Antonyms: Give, supply, allow
Idioms and Phrases
- Withhold judgement: To delay forming an opinion about something until more information is available. Example: "I will withhold judgement on the new policy until I see how it will work in practice."
- Withhold affection: To deliberately not show love or care towards someone. Example: "She decided to withhold affection after he broke her trust."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The teacher decided to withhold the exam results until all the papers were graded.
Example 2: Parents should not withhold information from their children regarding important family matters.
Example 3: The company chose to withhold the launch of the product until it was fully ready for the market.
Fun Fact
The word "withhold" originates from Old English "wiholdan," which means to "hold against," showing the idea of keeping something away or back from someone.
Famous Quote
"To withhold information is to deny someone the truth they deserve." - Unknown
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "withhold" mean?
a) To give something willingly
b) To refuse to give something
c) To create something new
d) To forget about something
Answer: b) To refuse to give something
2. Which of these is a synonym of "withhold"?
a) Reject
b) Retain
c) Offer
d) Present
Answer: b) Retain
3. Which sentence uses "withhold" correctly?
a) She decided to withhold her payment for the service.
b) They withhold the support to make projects better.
c) I withhold the cake for my birthday.
d) He wanted to withhold a song in the concert.
Answer: a) She decided to withhold her payment for the service.
4. Which idiom means delaying an opinion?
a) Withhold judgement
b) Withhold affection
c) Put all your eggs in one basket
d) Let the cat out of the bag
Answer: a) Withhold judgement
5. What is the opposite of "withhold"?
a) Keep back
b) Refuse
c) Give
d) Hold
Answer: c) Give
