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abstain

Meaning in simple English, pronunciation and examples

Pronunciation: US /əbˈsteɪn/

abstain means: To choose not to do or have something, especially something enjoyable.

verb

CHOOSE TO AVOIDC1

To choose not to do or have something, especially something enjoyable.

  • I abstain from alcohol.
  • She abstained from smoking throughout her pregnancy.
  • They chose to abstain from eating sweets for a month.

How to use it: abstain from something (She abstains from alcohol.); abstain from doing something (He decided to abstain from eating meat.)

Similar words: refrain, forgo

Common phrases: abstain from alcohol, abstain from smoking, abstain from something

DO NOT VOTEB2

To choose not to vote for or against something at a meeting or election.

  • Two members chose to abstain.
  • He abstained from voting on the proposal.
  • Will you support the motion or abstain?

How to use it: abstain from voting (Three members abstained from voting.); abstain on something (She abstained on the budget proposal.)

Common phrases: abstain from voting, abstain on something

Questions about abstain

What does abstain mean?

To choose not to do or have something, especially something enjoyable.

What is abstain in other languages?

Türkçe: kaçınmak · Español: abstenerse · Français: s’abstenir · Deutsch: verzichten · Italiano: astenersi · 日本語: 控える

How do you pronounce abstain?

It is pronounced /əbˈsteɪn/.

How do you use abstain in a sentence?

I abstain from alcohol. She abstained from smoking throughout her pregnancy.

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abstain in other languages

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