Withholding
/wɪθˈhoʊldɪŋ/
Definitions
2 meaningsTo keep back; to refrain from giving or granting; to retain.
/wɪθˈhoʊld/
To refuse to give something.
The bank withheld information about the loan.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're sharing your favorite candy, but you decide to keep some for yourself. That's withholding – you're holding back what you could give.
👶 For kids: To keep something from someone.
More Examples
She withheld her opinion during the meeting.
The government is withholding aid to the affected region.
How It's Used
"The company withheld payment until the work was completed."
"Taxes are withheld from each paycheck."
The act of retaining or keeping back; the amount or thing withheld.
/wɪθˈhoʊldɪŋ/
The act of withholding something.
The company faced penalties for tax withholding errors.
💡 Simply: Withholding is like the 'taking out' part of a 'give and take'. It's when something is held back. For instance, when your allowance is withheld.
👶 For kids: The thing you don't give to someone.
More Examples
The withholding of evidence obstructed the investigation.
A significant amount was involved in the withholding.
How It's Used
"Tax withholding is a crucial part of the income tax system."
"There was a withholding of information from the public."
Synonyms & Antonyms
From Middle English *withhalden*, from Old English *wiþheldan* (to hold back, restrain), equivalent to with + hold. The prefix *with-* indicates opposition or withdrawal.
The term has been used since the 14th century, evolving from its earlier forms to signify the act of retaining or keeping back.
Memory tip
Think of someone holding something back from you; they're *withholding* it.
Word Origin
"To hold back; to restrain."