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to refrain vs to refrain from

Both 'to refrain' and 'to refrain from' are correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'To refrain' is used when mentioning the action that is being avoided, while 'to refrain from' is used when specifying what action is being avoided.

Last updated: March 08, 2024 • 953 views

to refrain

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

Use 'to refrain' when mentioning the action that is being avoided. It is often followed by the action or behavior that is being restrained.

Examples:

He decided to refrain from eating sweets to improve his health.
She had to refrain from commenting on the situation to avoid conflict.

Show examples from the web [+]

refrain. 2 [rɪˈfreɪn] VI to refrain from sth/from doing sth → abstenerse de algo/de hacer algo. I couldn't refrain from laughing → no pude contener la risa.
When someone burps in a quiet classroom it can be hard to refrain from laughing . Use the verb refrain if you have a sudden impulse to do something, and you ...
I just asked the pesky Honda dealership salespeople to refrain from calling or emailing me. And I used lawyerly language for added punch. I think they'll refrain ...
Deciding to refrain from such negotiations can help you—and even save your life. ... The protective order also stated that Muzzammil Hassan is “to refrain from ...

Alternatives:

He decided not to eat sweets to improve his health.
She had to hold back from commenting on the situation to avoid conflict.

to refrain from

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

Use 'to refrain from' when specifying what action is being avoided. It is followed by the specific action or behavior that is being restrained.

Examples:

She decided to refrain from eating sweets to improve her health.
He had to refrain from commenting on the situation to avoid conflict.

Show examples from the web [+]

More words related to refrain from. beware. verb. be careful. attend · avoid · be cautious · be wary · guard against · heed · keep eyes open · keep on one's toes ...
refrain. 2 [rɪˈfreɪn] VI to refrain from sth/from doing sth → abstenerse de algo/de hacer algo. I couldn't refrain from laughing → no pude contener la risa.
When someone burps in a quiet classroom it can be hard to refrain from laughing . Use the verb refrain if you have a sudden impulse to do something, and you ...
It seems therefore consonant alike with prudence and reverence to refrain from attempting to combine afresh into a single picture the materials derivable from ...

Alternatives:

She decided not to eat sweets to improve her health.
He had to hold back from commenting on the situation to avoid conflict.

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