abstain
verb (used without object)
to hold oneself back voluntarily, especially from something regarded as improper or unhealthy (usually followed byfrom ).
had been abstaining
-
past perfect progressiveof abstain.past perfect progressive
Used to describe an action that was ongoing continuously in the past up until another past event interrupted it.
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.
I had been abstaining from food during the day as well, in part to see how the Saudis did it, and also because there was none for sale until nightfall.
From Forbes ● Feb. 2, 2011
He had been abstaining lately; now his besetting appetite rushed upon him.
From Alice of Old Vincennes by Maurice Thompson
