refrain
What does "refrain" mean?
To refrain means to intentionally hold yourself back from doing something that you might otherwise be inclined to do. Imagine you are standing at the edge of a tempting dessert buffet, but you choose to stop yourself because you are on a diet; that act of restraint is refraining. The word is most commonly used in formal contexts, often followed by the preposition "from." It implies a conscious decision to exercise self-control or avoid an action, usually to prevent a negative outcome or to maintain decorum in a professional setting.
"refrain" in conversation
Office Meeting
Please refrain from using your phones during the presentation.
Please refrain from using your phones during the presentation.
Understood, I'll put mine away now.
Understood, I'll put mine away now.
Used here to politely but firmly set a boundary in a formal setting.
Street Conflict
I know he insulted you, but please refrain from starting a fight.
I know he insulted you, but please refrain from starting a fight.
You're right, it's not worth the trouble.
You're right, it's not worth the trouble.
Highlights the use of the word to advise someone to exercise self-control.
"refrain" in a sentence
Please refrain from talking in the library.
Please refrain from talking in the library.
The judge asked the jury to refrain from discussing the case with anyone.
The judge asked the jury to refrain from discussing the case with anyone.
She had to refrain from laughing when her colleague tripped over the rug during the serious briefing.
She had to refrain from laughing when her colleague tripped over the rug during the serious briefing.
