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ab·stain

abstain

 
 
pronunciation:
b steIn
features:
Word Combinations (verb), Word Parts
part of speech: intransitive verb
inflections: abstains, abstaining, abstained
definition 1: to choose to refrain from something, esp. from actions or things considered to be unhealthy or unwise.
She generally abstains from alcohol, but she indulged in a glass of champagne on this occasion.His wife's dress was indeed unflattering, but he abstained from giving his opinion.
synonyms:
forbear, refrain, withhold
antonyms:
indulge, overindulge, partake
similar words:
decline, desist, fast, keep, quit, teetotal
definition 2: in parliamentary process, to refrain from casting a vote.
The senator was expected to vote in favor of the measure, but instead she abstained.
antonyms:
vote
similar words:
decline, forbear, refrain, withhold
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