Abstain Meaning

Abstain

Definitions and Meaning in English

1. To deliberately refrain from doing something or abstain from a particular activity, usually for a specific reason.
2. To choose not to participate in a decision or action, especially in voting or other formal processes.
3. To avoid consumption or participation in something, such as food, drink, or behavior.

History and Origin

The word “abstain” comes from the Latin abstinere, meaning “to hold back” or “to refrain,” derived from ab- (away) and tenere (to hold). It has been used in English since the 14th century to describe refraining from specific actions or behaviors.

Detailed Explanation

To abstain means to voluntarily refrain from partaking in something, whether it’s an activity, behavior, or substance. It is often associated with conscious decisions to avoid indulgence, whether for health, religious, moral, or personal reasons. In political or formal contexts, it refers to choosing not to participate in a vote, decision-making process, or an action where one’s stance is neutral or unavailable. Abstaining is seen as an intentional decision to avoid involvement or consumption.

Example Sentences

1. She decided to abstain from alcohol during the month of January.
2. During the vote, several members chose to abstain from voting.
3. He made a commitment to abstain from unhealthy foods for the sake of his health.
4. The witness chose to abstain from answering the question in court.
5. Many people abstain from eating meat for ethical or religious reasons.
6. The group members were asked to abstain from making decisions until they had all the facts.
7. I decided to abstain from the party because I wasn’t feeling well.
8. She decided to abstain from commenting on the controversial issue.
9. The judge ruled that the jurors must abstain from discussing the case outside of court.

Synonyms with Short Explanation

1. Refrain – To hold back or avoid doing something, similar to abstaining.
2. Withhold – To deliberately not give or allow something, often used in the context of participation or contribution.
3. Avoid – To deliberately stay away from something or prevent involvement.
4. Decline – To politely refuse or choose not to participate, similar to abstaining.
5. Resist – To fight against doing something, often related to an urge or temptation.

Related Words with Short Explanation

1. Temperance – The practice of abstaining from indulgence, especially in the context of food, drink, or desires.
2. Moderation – The avoidance of excess, often linked with the idea of abstaining from overindulgence.
3. Self-control – The ability to control one’s actions or desires, often required to abstain from certain behaviors.
4. Prohibition – The action of forbidding something, which may lead to abstention from that activity.
5. Asceticism – A lifestyle characterized by abstinence from various pleasures, often for spiritual or ethical reasons.

More Matches with Short Explanation

1. Restraint – The act of limiting or holding back, similar to abstaining from certain actions.
2. Celibacy – The state of abstaining from marriage or sexual activity, typically for religious reasons.
3. Fast – To abstain from food or drink for a set period, often for health or religious purposes.
4. Temperance movement – A social movement advocating for abstinence from alcohol.
5. Prohibition – The legal or social practice of forbidding the consumption of certain substances, often leading to abstention.

Antonyms

1. Indulge
2. Participate
3. Engage
4. Consume
5. Join