What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
abstinency
Example
His abstinency from alcohol was admirable. [abstinency: noun]
Example
She practiced abstinency from sweets to maintain a healthy diet. [abstinency: noun]
abstinence
Example
He chose abstinence from smoking to improve his health. [abstinence: noun]
Example
The monk practiced abstinence from worldly pleasures. [abstinence: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Abstinence is more commonly used than abstinency in everyday language and is more versatile in its usage.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between abstinency and abstinence?
Abstinency is considered more formal than abstinence, and is often used in medical or psychological contexts.
