refrain
verb (used without object)
to abstain from an impulse to say or do something (often followed byfrom ).
have refrained
-
present perfectof refrain.present perfect
Used to describe actions that started in the past and continue into or have direct relevance to the 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.
At the same time, though, most companies have refrained from widespread layoffs given a chronic shortage of skilled workers.
From MarketWatch ● Feb. 26, 2026
Local police have refrained from using the Department of Homeland Security’s characterization of Porter as an “active shooter.”
From Los Angeles Times ● Feb. 3, 2026
Several leading retailers, including Target and Walmart, have refrained from saying how many additional workers they will bring onto their payrolls for the holidays.
From BBC ● Nov. 26, 2025
Despite lacking big numbers, those signing the statement could force nuisance procedural votes that consume Senate floor time and irritate their colleagues — though to date, they have refrained from such steps.
From New York Times ● Jun. 5, 2024
Mothers always want to find out what goes on here and there, but I have refrained, on principle, from telling anything.
From Villa Eden: The Country-House on the Rhine by Berthold Auerbach
