refrain
word
Definition
To stop yourself from doing something, especially something you want to do. As a noun, it means the part of a song that repeats after each verse.
Usage & Nuances
'Refrain' as a verb is formal and often appears in written English or announcements ("Please refrain from smoking"). As a noun in music, 'refrain' means the chorus. Learners often confuse 'refrain' (to avoid doing something) with 'restrain' (to physically hold back).
Example Sentences
Please refrain from eating in the library.
basic
He couldn't refrain from laughing during the movie.
basic
Everyone sang the refrain together at the concert.
basic
If you can't say anything nice, it's better to refrain from speaking.
natural
Sometimes it's hard to refrain from checking my phone every five minutes.
natural
The kids quickly joined in singing the catchy refrain of the song.
natural