The captain was holding off ordering the attack until reinforcements arrived.

She holds up the fragile frame carefully to avoid cracking the glass.

The ancient oak tree, holding up the sagging fence, had grown into a familiar landmark.

The charity's annual auction turned into a no-holds-barred bidding war, with collectors competing fiercely for rare items.

She holds off signing the contract until she consults a lawyer.

When the new mayor's reforms took hold, the rundown neighborhoods slowly began to recover.

After the new governor's reforms were announced, hope had taken hold among the population.

A sense of calm, taking hold after the long storm, surprised everyone.

When the spring rain begins, a quiet calm takes hold over the village.

Even decades later, his predictions still hold true for many scientists.