abstain
Translation
to abstain, to refrain, to forbear
Examples
He decided to abstain from alcohol.
He decided to abstain from alcohol.
Ten members voted for the bill, and two abstained.
Ten members voted for the bill, and two abstained.
Grammar Patterns
((from sth.)) to refrain from (sth.) He decided to abstain from alcohol.
(no object) to choose not to vote Ten members voted for the bill, and two abstained.
Similar Words
Synonyms: refrain, forbear; Antonyms: indulge, participate
Etymology
From Latin 'ab-' (from, away) + 'tenere' (to hold). Literally 'to hold away from'.
Memory Tips
Think of 'abs' (away) + 'tain' (hold). You are 'holding' yourself 'away' from something.