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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Each year, the World Health Organization and the United Nations Children’s Fund publish a comprehensive report on estimates of national immunization coverage, based on data from 195 countries.—
Jacqueline Howard,
CNN Money,
15 July 2025
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Programs can leverage these capabilities to look at other sources of insider threat (e.g., fraud, IP theft, etc.) in an integrated and comprehensive way.—
Control Risks,
Forbes.com,
15 July 2025
Adjective
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This requires clear expectations, thorough documentation, and measuring success by deliverables rather than desk time.—
Sarah Hernholm,
Forbes.com,
4 July 2025
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Allen recommends familiarizing yourself with your state’s requirements and keeping thorough documentation of your health and employment.—
Staff Author,
Verywell Health,
3 July 2025
Adjective
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Check out our complete list of the Best Prime Day TV deals for more recommendations.—
Simon Hill,
Wired News,
11 July 2025
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The injury was severe -- a complete break across her femur with multiple fragments.—
Doc Louallen,
ABC News,
11 July 2025
Cite this Entry
“No-holds-barred.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/no-holds-barred. Accessed 19 Jul. 2025.
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