B1verb 2K

Refrain

🇬🇧 UK //rɪˈfreɪn// 🇺🇸 US //rɪˈfreɪn//

Meaning of Refrain

To stop oneself from doing something, often something annoying or unpleasant.

In simple words: To stop yourself from doing something.

Refrain in a sentence

• Please refrain from speaking during the performance.
• It’s best to refrain from making any comments until we have all the facts.
• I had to refrain from laughing at his joke.
• She decided to refrain from eating junk food for a month.
• Can you refrain from using your phone during the meeting?

How to use Refrain

Commonly used to advise or suggest that someone should avoid certain actions. Suitable in both spoken and written contexts.

Grammar pattern

refrain + from + gerund

Memory hint

Sounds like 're-frame' - imagine re-framing your thoughts to not do something.

Related words

Collocations with Refrain

• refrain from acting
• refrain from commenting
• refrain from using
• refrain from criticizing
• refrain from interrupting

Synonyms for Refrain

• abstain
• avoid
• withhold
• stop
• desist

Opposites of Refrain

• allow
• encourage
• promote

Common mistakes with Refrain

• Confusing 'refrain from' with 'prevent from'.
• Using 'refrain' without 'from'.
• Misusing the verb form, e.g., saying 'refraining' incorrectly.

Frequently asked questions about Refrain

What does Refrain mean?

To stop yourself from doing something.

What is the definition of Refrain?

To stop oneself from doing something, often something annoying or unpleasant.

How do you use Refrain in a sentence?

Please refrain from speaking during the performance.

Can you give another example of Refrain?

It’s best to refrain from making any comments until we have all the facts.

What are synonyms for Refrain?

Common alternatives include abstain, avoid, withhold, stop, desist.

What is the opposite of Refrain?

Opposite meanings include allow, encourage, promote.

What words go with Refrain?

It commonly pairs with refrain from acting, refrain from commenting, refrain from using, refrain from criticizing, refrain from interrupting.

What are common mistakes when using Refrain?

Confusing 'refrain from' with 'prevent from'. Using 'refrain' without 'from'. Misusing the verb form, e.g., saying 'refraining' incorrectly.

How do you pronounce Refrain?

US: //rɪˈfreɪn//, UK: //rɪˈfreɪn//. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

When should I use Refrain?

Commonly used to advise or suggest that someone should avoid certain actions. Suitable in both spoken and written contexts.

What CEFR level is Refrain?

"Refrain" is at B1 level on the CEFR scale.