This is the 16591st most frequent Russian word.
сдерживали
"Restrained" or "held back."
The word 'сдерживали' here means 'were holding back,' describing the action of controlling or restraining one's emotions intentionally.
Они сдерживали свои эмоции, стараясь не показать разочарование.
They were holding back their emotions, trying not to show disappointment.
In this sentence, 'сдерживали' refers to 'restraining physically or behaviorally,' indicating an act of preventing someone from acting abruptly.
Сдерживали своего друга, чтобы он не вышел из себя.
They held back their friend so that he wouldn't lose his temper.
Here, 'сдерживали' signifies 'withholding or not fulfilling,' indicating that the politicians intentionally postpone or delay keeping their promises.