refrain
verb (used without object)
to abstain from an impulse to say or do something (often followed byfrom ).
are refraining
-
present progressiveof refrain.present progressive
Used to describe an ongoing action or state that is currently taking place in the immediate present.
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.
Some businesses are refraining from adding staff as they explore whether artificial intelligence could take on more tasks.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Feb. 11, 2026
Those of us who believed otherwise are refraining from saying "I told you so" — OK, we're definitely not.
From Salon ● Jun. 15, 2023
Most writers are refraining from press interviews for their shows, promotional events organized by networks or studios, and from posting on their own social media accounts, where they would boost awareness about their work.
From Los Angeles Times ● May 19, 2023
Clients including data centre operators, smartphone and personal computer makers are refraining from buying new chips and instead using up inventories, as consumer demand for tech devices remains sluggish due to rising inflation.
From Reuters ● Apr. 4, 2023
Well, I suppose you can't help it, but when you want to know a thing and are refraining from asking questions, you always have it more or less.'
From Beechcroft at Rockstone by Charlotte Mary Yonge
