B1verb 2K

Refrain

UK //rɪˈfreɪn// US //rɪˈfreɪn// Pronunciation

Definition

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

Listen to definition

In simple words: To stop yourself from doing something.

Examples

• 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?

Usage notes

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.

Collocations

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

Synonyms

• abstain
• avoid
• withhold
• stop
• desist

Antonyms

• allow
• encourage
• promote

Common mistakes

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