abstinence

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.

It concludes a 40-day period known as Lent, during which Christians focus on prayer, almsgiving, and practice traditions such as abstinence from eating meat on certain days.

From Barron's • Apr. 2, 2026

Nevertheless, Cassian prescribed abstinence not as “‘virtuous in itself’ but because of its positive effects on the soul.”

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 19, 2025

"Dead people can't recover, and overwhelmingly the research shows that there's no opposition between harm reduction and abstinence goals."

From Salon • May 24, 2025

"Because Friday was the day of the crucifixion, Fridays were always regarded as a day of penance and abstinence," he said.

From BBC • Dec. 14, 2024

He spoke to Abra of the necessity for abstinence and decided that he would live a life of celibacy.

From "East of Eden" by John Steinbeck