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refrain

[rɪˈfreɪn]

refrain Definition

  • 1stop oneself from doing something
  • 2a repeated line or phrase in a song or poem

Using refrain: Examples

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

  • Example

    I had to refrain from laughing during the serious meeting.

  • Example

    She refrained from commenting on the issue.

  • Example

    The refrain of the song is catchy and memorable.

refrain Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for refrain

Antonyms for refrain

Phrases with refrain

  • to stop oneself from doing something

    Example

    Please refrain from smoking in the building.

  • to avoid doing something

    Example

    I refrained from telling her the truth.

  • a phrase or idea that has become boring or predictable through overuse

    Example

    I'm tired of hearing the same old refrain about how hard it is to find good employees.

Origins of refrain

from Old French 'refraindre', meaning 'to hold back'

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Summary: refrain in Brief

The verb 'refrain' [rɪˈfreɪn] means to stop oneself from doing something. It can also refer to a repeated line or phrase in a song or poem, known as a refrain. Examples of its use include 'I had to refrain from laughing during the serious meeting.' and 'The refrain of the song is catchy and memorable.' Its phrases include 'refrain from,' meaning to stop oneself from doing something, and 'the same old refrain,' referring to a phrase or idea that has become boring or predictable through overuse.

How do native speakers use this expression?