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Holdout for Dummies

noun

pronunciation: 'hoʊld,aʊt

What does Holdout really mean?

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Holdout is a word that can have different meanings depending on the context. Let's start with the most common definition. In a general sense, holdout means to refuse to give in or give up on something. It refers to someone who keeps holding onto a belief, opinion, or position even when others are trying to convince them otherwise. It's like when you firmly believe in something and don't easily change your mind, no matter how much others try to persuade you.

Imagine you and your friend are arguing about whether pizza or burgers are the best food. If you are a pizza holdout, it means you are sticking to your belief that pizza is the greatest, even if your friend presents convincing arguments in favor of burgers. You won't give up on your love for pizza! Everyone has their holdout moments when they cling to what they think is right, despite what others say.

Now, let's explore another meaning of holdout. In a legal context, holdout has a slightly different definition. It refers to someone who refuses to agree or comply with something, often involving negotiations or contracts. It's like being stubborn and not accepting the terms or conditions that have been proposed or agreed upon by the majority.

Imagine you and your classmates are deciding on a class trip. Most of your classmates want to go to the beach, but you are a holdout. You don't like the beach because you don't enjoy swimming or the sun. So, you refuse to agree with the majority and hold onto your preference of going to a mountain instead. You are a holdout because you are refusing to comply with the popular choice.

In a nutshell, holdout means holding onto something, whether it's a belief, opinion, or refusal to comply. It's about staying firm and not easily changing your mind, even when others are trying to convince you otherwise. Just like when you have a favorite ice cream flavor and won't budge, even when your friends suggest other flavors. That's a holdout moment!


Revised and Fact checked by Stephanie Wilson on 2023-10-29 10:02:57

Holdout In a sentece

Learn how to use Holdout inside a sentece

  • When playing a game of hide-and-seek, a holdout is the person who does not hide and instead stays in a visible spot so they can catch others easily.
  • In a group of friends, a holdout might be the one who doesn't want to share their candy with others and keeps it all to themselves.
  • Imagine a group of students taking a quiz where they have to answer multiple-choice questions. A holdout is the student who decides not to choose any answer and leaves the question blank.
  • During a voting process, a holdout is someone who refuses to cast their vote for any candidate or option.
  • When playing a card game like Poker, a holdout could be someone who tries to secretly keep an extra card hidden to gain an advantage in the game.

Holdout Hypernyms

Words that are more generic than the original word.