What Is Another Way to Say “Held Up”?

Looking for synonyms for held up? We’ve got you covered!

Here’s a list of other ways to say held up.

  • Delayed
  • Postponed
  • Detained
  • Stalled
  • Retarded
  • Impeded
  • Hindered
  • Obstructed
  • Hampered
  • Interrupted
  • Protracted
  • Defered
  • Suspended
  • Prolonged
  • Set back

Want to learn how to say held up professionally? Keep reading for examples and use cases.

1. Delayed

Appropriate Use: Suitable for when something is made to happen later than planned.
Example: “The shipment was delayed due to unexpected weather conditions.”

2. Postponed

Appropriate Use: Ideal for when an event or activity is rescheduled to a later time or date.
Example: “The conference has been postponed until next month.”

3. Detained

Appropriate Use: Used when someone is held back or delayed, especially in terms of leaving a place.
Example: “He was detained at the customs for additional checks.”

4. Stalled

Appropriate Use: Suitable for a situation where progress has temporarily stopped.
Example: “The negotiations stalled due to disagreements on key terms.”

5. Retarded

Appropriate Use: Used for situations where progress is slowed down or delayed.
Example: “The project’s progress was retarded by unforeseen regulatory changes.”

6. Impeded

Appropriate Use: Ideal for circumstances where progress is hindered or obstructed.
Example: “Her career advancement was impeded by a lack of networking opportunities.”

7. Hindered

Appropriate Use: Suitable for describing when progress or movement is made difficult.
Example: “The new regulations hindered our ability to launch the product quickly.”

8. Obstructed

Appropriate Use: Used for situations where an obstacle or barrier prevents or hinders progress.
Example: “The road to the new site was obstructed by construction, causing delays.”

9. Hampered

Appropriate Use: Ideal for circumstances where progress or movement is adversely affected.
Example: “Product development was hampered by limited funding.”

10. Interrupted

Appropriate Use: Suitable for when a process or activity is temporarily stopped or disrupted.
Example: “The power outage interrupted the manufacturing process.”

11. Protracted

Appropriate Use: Used for situations where something is lengthened or drawn out.
Example: “The protracted legal dispute affected the company’s operations.”

12. Deferred

Appropriate Use: Ideal for when something is put off to a later time.
Example: “The decision on the merger has been deferred until more information is available.”

13. Suspended

Appropriate Use: Suitable for when an activity is temporarily halted.
Example: “Operations were suspended due to safety concerns.”

14. Prolonged

Appropriate Use: Used for situations where the duration of something is extended beyond the usual time.
Example: “The IT system upgrade caused a prolonged disruption to services.”

15. Set Back

Appropriate Use: Ideal for circumstances where progress is delayed or slowed down.
Example: “The unexpected resignation of the team leader set back the project timeline.”

Linda Brown