refrain
Translation
to refrain, to abstain
Examples
Please refrain from smoking in this area.
Please refrain from smoking in this area.
He refrained from making any comment.
He refrained from making any comment.
Grammar Patterns
((to refrain from -ing)) to stop oneself from doing (sth.) Please refrain from talking during the exam.
Similar Words
Synonyms: abstain, desist; Antonyms: indulge, continue
Etymology
From Latin 'refrenare' (to curb), from 're-' (back) + 'frenum' (bridle).
Memory Tips
Imagine pulling back the 'reins' on an action to stop yourself.