abstention Definition
the act or practice of refraining from taking part in a decision or vote, either as an individual or as a group.
Using abstention: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "abstention" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The party called for abstention from the vote.
Example
His abstention from the meeting was noted by the chairperson.
Example
The company's abstention from the bidding process was surprising.
abstention Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for abstention
Antonyms for abstention
Phrases with abstention
the practice of not drinking alcoholic beverages
Example
He has been practicing abstention from alcohol for a year now.
the practice of not engaging in sexual activity
Example
Their religious beliefs require abstention from sex before marriage.
the practice of not eating food, often for religious or health reasons
Example
She observed a period of abstention from food during the fasting season.
Origins of abstention
from Latin 'abstentio', meaning 'withholding'
Summary: abstention in Brief
'Abstention' [əbˈstenʃ(ə)n] refers to the act or practice of refraining from taking part in a decision or vote. It can be done individually or as a group, and is often used in political contexts. Phrases like 'abstention from alcohol' and 'abstention from sex' use 'abstention' to denote the practice of not engaging in certain activities, often for religious or health reasons.
