What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
abstainment
Example
His abstainment from alcohol was due to his religious beliefs. [abstainment: noun]
Example
She practiced abstainment from social media during her meditation retreat. [abstainment: noun]
abstinence
Example
He chose abstinence from alcohol as part of his addiction recovery. [abstinence: noun]
Example
She practiced abstinence from sex until marriage. [abstinence: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Abstinence is more commonly used than abstainment in everyday language.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between abstainment and abstinence?
Abstinence is more formal than abstainment, making it more appropriate for academic or professional contexts.
