refrain

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.

The G7 ministers also called on all countries to refrain from imposing unjustified export restrictions on hydrocarbons and related products.

From Barron's • Mar. 30, 2026

Oil prices edged lower and stocks reversed some of Thursday’s losses as U.S. officials sought to calm markets and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu suggested Israel would refrain from future strikes against Iranian oil fields.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 20, 2026

Phil and who will conduct Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony at the Bowl this summer, is making Beethoven a refrain of his first season in New York, as well.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 17, 2026

The refrain “I was just doing my job” wears thin awfully fast.

From Slate • Mar. 16, 2026

If all of you refrain from pressing the button, you’ll each receive $10,000 from the philanthropist.

From "Innumeracy: Mathematical Illiteracy and Its Consequences" by John Allen Paulos