abstain

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

"Followers will still feel, as a matter of conscience, that they still need to abstain because of the pressure to go above and beyond in showing their loyalty to the organisation," he said.

From BBC • Apr. 12, 2026

“Arbitrators aren’t elected, they’re not required to weigh countywide trade-offs like homeless services, healthcare, capital improvements, all of those things,” said Supervisor Holly Mitchell, the only supervisor to abstain from the vote.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 11, 2026

The basics of a no-spend—or low-spend, depending on your personal definition—challenge are just that: for a predetermined period of time, you abstain from nonessential purchases.

From Salon • Jan. 11, 2026

"Almost no one is interested in this election. But some are worried they may face trouble if they abstain," said the Myitkyina resident, 33, speaking anonymously for security reasons.

From Barron's • Dec. 23, 2025

Though I follow the rules and routines of convent life, Angelina will not allow me to abstain from meat, as the sisters do.

From "Ophelia" by Lisa Klein