abstain

What does “abstain” mean?

verb.to restrain oneself from doing or enjoying something.

SAT Usage

This term often appears in contexts related to self-control, morality, or health, such as discussions about dietary choices or ethical dilemmas. It emphasizes a conscious choice to forgo something pleasurable or desired, distinguishing itself from similar words like "avoid," which may lack the connotation of personal sacrifice or discipline.

Common Confusions

Abstain implies a conscious choice to forgo something pleasurable or desired, while avoid usually suggests a passive act of steering clear of something without the same level of self-discipline.

Example Sentences

• In order to improve his health, Rob decided to abstain from smoking.

• I abstain from this vote, as I have no particular preference.

• He chose to abstain from voting on the controversial issue.

Word Parts: How to Remember “abstain”

Break “abstain” into its parts: ab- (away from, off). Knowing roots like these helps you decode unfamiliar SAT vocabulary.

• Prefix: ab- away from, off (Latin)