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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This comprehensive approach has led to a stronger core of internal talent at Aflac. Data and AI as Business Drivers Aflac has long been a pioneer in artificial intelligence, implementing solutions to improve claims quality and auto-adjudicate lower-risk claims.—
Peter High,
Forbes.com,
30 Mar. 2025
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Without a comprehensive impact study on the risks of displacement, this project cannot be responsibly approved.—
Aimee Rosato,
New York Daily News,
30 Mar. 2025
Adjective
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That sometimes interferes with their ability to conduct a thorough audit, because in their mind the risks of UNAX outweigh the benefit to their examination.—
Bruce Brumberg,
Forbes.com,
31 Mar. 2025
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The shelter wrote on Facebook that the three animals received thorough veterinary checkups and treatments to address their minor health issues.—
Charlotte Phillipp,
People.com,
31 Mar. 2025
Adjective
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The stunning dress — complete with ruching detail on the bodice and a sweetheart V-neck — takes Vivian from a duckling to a swan, leaving everyone (including Edward) in awe while on a date at the opera to watch a performance of Verdi's La Traviata.—
Andrea Wurzburger,
People.com,
23 Mar. 2025
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And her fashion sense is impeccable, too, wearing everything from a stylish black Prada dress to a ginger top and miniskirt, complete with a distinctive gold chain necklace.—
EW.com,
EW.com,
23 Mar. 2025
Cite this Entry
“No-holds-barred.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/no-holds-barred. Accessed 3 Apr. 2025.
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