What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
avoidance
Example
She has a strong avoidance of conflict and tries to avoid arguments whenever possible. [avoidance: noun]
Example
He is known for his avoidance of social gatherings and prefers to spend time alone. [avoidance: noun]
abstention
Example
She made an abstention from eating sweets as part of her diet plan. [abstention: noun]
Example
He practiced abstention from smoking and successfully quit the habit. [abstention: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Avoidance is more commonly used than abstention in everyday language. Avoidance can be applied to a wide range of situations and contexts, making it a more versatile word. On the other hand, abstention is often used in specific areas like diet, habits, or voting.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between avoidance and abstention?
While avoidance is commonly used in both formal and informal contexts, abstention is more formal in its usage. It is often employed in specific areas where conscious choices and self-discipline are emphasized.
