holdup
word
Definition
A 'holdup' is a crime where someone is threatened, usually with a weapon, to steal money or valuables. It can also mean an unexpected delay or something that causes things to stop moving forward.
Usage & Nuances
'Holdup' is informal. Often used for armed robbery, especially in news or crime contexts; in casual conversation, can refer to any unexpected delay ('traffic holdup'). Less often used as a verb ('hold up' is more common for the action). Distinguish from 'hold up' (phrasal verb).
Example Sentences
The traffic holdup made us late for the movie.
basic
The holdup lasted only two minutes, but everyone was terrified.
natural
We’re running late because of a holdup on the highway.
natural
That paperwork was a real holdup for our project.
natural
Sorry for the holdup—my bus was late.
basic
There was a holdup at the bank yesterday.
basic