1. to choose not to do or have something, especially something enjoyable or something one wants
Usage: often followed by ‘from’
2. to choose not to vote in an election or on a particular issue
Usage: political context

Examples

• She decided to abstain from eating sweets during her diet.
• The senator chose to abstain from the controversial vote.
• Many athletes abstain from alcohol during training season.
• He abstained from making any comments about the scandal.
• Three council members abstained when the motion came to a vote.
• The doctor advised her to abstain from smoking completely.