as in comprehensive
free from the usual limits or rules
a no-holds-barred interview with the senator a no-holds-barred contest
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Recent Examples of no-holds-barred
David Fincher's 1999 big screen adaptation of author Chuck Palahniuk's 1996 novel opened in U.S. theaters 25 years ago today, wowing audiences with its distinctive style and no-holds-barred — if frequently misunderstood — examination of modern masculinity.
—
John Russell, People.com, 15 Oct. 2024
But the seething energy shared between the various women in the film reaches operatic fever pitch, Close going no-holds-barred with Day and a combative Mo’Nique as a semi-sympathetic social worker.
—Nicholas Bell, SPIN, 4 Sep. 2024
The no-holds-barred, no gloves, everything-goes fighting had been happening in Brazil for many years.
—Kyle Newman, The Denver Post, 13 Apr. 2024
John Russell, People.com, 15 Oct. 2024
But the seething energy shared between the various women in the film reaches operatic fever pitch, Close going no-holds-barred with Day and a combative Mo’Nique as a semi-sympathetic social worker.
—Nicholas Bell, SPIN, 4 Sep. 2024
The no-holds-barred, no gloves, everything-goes fighting had been happening in Brazil for many years.
—Kyle Newman, The Denver Post, 13 Apr. 2024
Recent Examples of Synonyms for no-holds-barred
Adjective
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There is also little doubt those comprehensive plans went up in flames.—
Josh Klein,
New York Daily News,
9 Feb. 2025
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The top 25 airlines all meet a list of specific requirements, such as providing a comprehensive full-service experience, and having an economy seat pitch of a minimum of 31 inches.—
Tamara Hardingham-Gill,
CNN,
9 Feb. 2025
Adjective
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Experts say some packages have been caught up in the confusion and could still be sitting with customs, where they were set to undergo a more thorough inspection. 4.—
Alexandra Banner,
CNN,
11 Feb. 2025
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Start with a thorough vacuuming using a clean upholstery attachment to remove dust, hair, and other debris from the mattress surface.—
Daley Quinn,
Southern Living,
10 Feb. 2025
Adjective
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The complete Shielding Suit, including jacket and pants, costs $5,290.—
Kurt Knutsson, CyberGuy Report,
Fox News,
17 Feb. 2025
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Fried was talking about 1978, when Guidry also had a 1.74 ERA in 35 starts, including 16 complete games and nine shutouts.—
Brendan Kuty,
The Athletic,
17 Feb. 2025
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Cite this Entry
“No-holds-barred.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/no-holds-barred. Accessed 22 Feb. 2025.
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