Abstain – Choosing to Say No

 


What Does Abstain Mean?

Abstain (verb) /əb-ˈstān/
To choose not to do something, especially something enjoyable or tempting, often for personal, moral, or health reasons. It means deliberately avoiding an action or behavior.

Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms: refrain, withhold, desist, avoid, hold back
Antonyms: indulge, participate, engage, accept

Why People Abstain

People abstain for many reasons:

  • To maintain health (like abstaining from smoking or alcohol)

  • For ethical or religious beliefs

  • To stay focused or avoid distractions

  • During voting, to not take sides

Abstaining is a way to exercise self-control and discipline.

Origin of the Word

“Abstain” comes from Latin abstinere, meaning “to hold back” or “to keep away.” It combines:

  • ab- meaning “away from”

  • tenere meaning “to hold”

Together, it literally means to hold oneself away from something.

Common Uses and Examples

1. In Daily Life

Example:
“She decided to abstain from sweets during the diet.”

Choosing to avoid something temporarily or permanently.

2. In Voting

Example:
“Several members abstained from voting due to a conflict of interest.”

Choosing not to vote either for or against.

3. In Health and Wellness

Example:
“Doctors recommend abstaining from alcohol before surgery.”

Is Abstaining Always Easy?

Not at all! Abstaining takes willpower and can be challenging. But it’s often rewarding because it helps people stick to their goals and values.

Quick Quiz

1. What does abstain mean?
a) To participate in something
b) To choose not to do something
c) To encourage someone

2. Which is an example of abstaining?
a) Eating a piece of cake
b) Refusing to drink alcohol
c) Joining a party

3. What is an antonym of abstain?
a) Refrain
b) Indulge
c) Withhold

Answers:
1 – b
2 – b
3 – b

Final Thoughts

Abstaining is all about self-control and making conscious choices. It’s a powerful word that reminds us we don’t have to do everything we want—sometimes saying no is the best thing.

What’s Next?

Next, we’ll explore abstinent — an adjective describing someone who practices abstaining, often from certain pleasures or habits.

Stay tuned for more!