Basic Details
Word: Abstain
Part of Speech: Verb
Meaning: To choose not to do something, especially something enjoyable or rewarding.
Synonyms: Refrain, forgo, desist
Antonyms: Engage, indulge, partake
Idioms and Phrases
- Abstain from temptation: To resist the urge to do something that you know is not good for you. Example: "I decided to abstain from temptation and not eat the cake on my diet."
- Abstaining is winning: This means that choosing to avoid something bad is in itself a form of success. Example: "By abstaining from negative influences, she felt that abstaining is winning."
Usage Examples
Example 1: In order to maintain a healthy lifestyle, he decided to abstain from sugary drinks.
Example 2: During the month of Ramadan, many Muslims abstain from food and drink during daylight hours.
Example 3: It was commendable that she chose to abstain from gossiping, even when it was tempting to join in.
Fun Fact
The word "abstain" comes from the Latin word "abstinia," which means "to withhold oneself." It has been used in the English language since the 14th century to describe the act of refraining from something.
Famous Quote
"To abstain from sin is better than to do penance." - Thomas Kempis
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "abstain" mean?
a) To refuse a gift
b) To choose not to do something
c) To try something new
d) To agree with others
Answer: b) To choose not to do something
2. Which of these is a synonym of "abstain"?
a) Engage
b) Refrain
c) Indulge
d) Join
Answer: b) Refrain
3. Which sentence uses "abstain" correctly?
a) I abstain my homework every evening.
b) She will abstain from sweets during Lent.
c) They abstain in the park every Sunday.
d) He abstain swimming during summer.
Answer: b) She will abstain from sweets during Lent.
4. Which idiom means to resist an urge?
a) Abstaining is winning
b) Jump in the deep end
c) Beat around the bush
d) Pulling someone's leg
Answer: a) Abstaining is winning
5. What is the opposite of "abstain"?
a) Refrain
b) Engage
c) Desist
d) Avoid
Answer: b) Engage
