abstain

[əbˈsteɪn]

abstain Definition

to choose not to do or have something, especially something enjoyable but thought to be bad for you.

Using abstain: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "abstain" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    I abstained from alcohol during the party.

  • Example

    He decided to abstain from voting on the issue.

  • Example

    She abstained from eating sweets to lose weight.

abstain Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for abstain

Antonyms for abstain

Phrases with abstain

  • to choose not to engage in sexual activity

    Example

    Some people choose to abstain from sex until marriage.

  • to choose not to drink alcohol

    Example

    He made a commitment to abstain from alcohol for a month.

  • to choose not to use drugs

    Example

    She decided to abstain from drugs after seeing the negative effects they had on her friends.

Origins of abstain

from Latin 'abstinentem', meaning 'withholding'

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Summary: abstain in Brief

'Abstain' [əbˈsteɪn] means to choose not to do or have something, especially something enjoyable but thought to be bad for you. It is often used in the context of avoiding alcohol, drugs, or sex. Synonyms include 'refrain,' 'avoid,' and 'forgo.'