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abstain Synonyms

Another word for abstain

Choosing another word for abstain depends on context, so the synonyms and similar words below are separated across 2 exact definitions and ranked by match strength.
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• verb (Context 1)

To restrain oneself from doing or enjoying something, especially a pleasurable indulgence or habit.

Usage Example

"The doctor advised the patient to refrain from caffeine and alcohol for at least a month."

Strongest
refrain
forbear
Strong
desist
hold back
keep from

• verb (Context 2)

To formally decline to vote either for or against a proposal or motion.

Usage Example

"Three members of the committee voted in favor of the resolution, while two chose to pass."

Strong
pass
sit out

Opposites of abstain

The opposite of abstain shifts depending on context. Common opposites include:

vote
indulge
partake
participate
yield
give in
See all opposites of abstain

• Nearby Words

absorption
absorptive
absorptiveness
abstain
abstainer
abstemiously
abstention

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Synonyms for Abstain. In Wordmom Thesaurus. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/synonyms/abstain
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