Abstinence: meaning, definitions and examples

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abstinence

[ˈæb.stɪ.nəns ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

health

The practice of restraining oneself from indulging in something, typically alcohol or food.

Synonyms

restraint, self-denial, sobriety.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
abstinence	Refers to voluntarily choosing not to do or have something that is desired, often for discipline or moral reasons. She showed remarkable abstinence from sweets during the diet challenge His year-long abstinence from video games was impressive
restraint	Implies controlling one's actions or emotions, often to avoid excess or harm. She showed great restraint by keeping her cool during the argument His restraint in spending money is admirable
self-denial	Used for purposely rejecting personal desires or needs, often to achieve a higher goal or for moral/religious reasons. It has a somewhat negative connotation of hardship or sacrifice. Her self-denial of luxury items made her appear very modest Monks practice self-denial to focus on spiritual growth
sobriety	Specifically refers to the state of being sober, especially from alcohol or drugs, and can also imply seriousness. He has maintained sobriety for five years now The sobriety of the event reflected the somber occasion

Examples of usage

Many people choose abstinence as a way to improve their health.
Abstinence from alcohol is recommended for pregnant women.
She decided to practice abstinence from fast food to lose weight.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

sex education

The practice of refraining from engaging in sexual activity.

Synonyms

celibacy, chastity, virginity.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
abstinence	Used when discussing refraining from certain activities, particularly with a focus on avoiding something harmful or addictive, like alcohol or drugs. He practiced abstinence from alcohol after recognizing his dependence. The program promotes abstinence as a way to lead a healthier lifestyle.
celibacy	Used specifically to refer to the state of abstaining from marriage and sexual relations, often for religious or spiritual reasons. The monk took a vow of celibacy to focus on spiritual growth. She chose celibacy to dedicate her life to her faith.
chastity	Used when discussing the quality or state of being morally pure, often with a strong emphasis on sexual purity and modesty. This term can carry a moral or virtuous connotation. The knight endeavored to uphold the virtues of honor and chastity. Those who value chastity often wait until marriage to engage in sexual relationships.
virginity	Used to refer to the state of never having engaged in sexual intercourse, often highlighting a person's innocence or purity. This term can have cultural and personal significance. Many cultures place a high value on virginity until marriage. She spoke openly about her decision to keep her virginity until she met the right person.

Examples of usage

Abstinence is often taught as a method of preventing sexually transmitted infections.
Some people choose abstinence as a personal commitment.
They promote abstinence as the safest form of birth control.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from the Latin 'abstinere,' which means 'to hold back' or 'to refrain from.'
It has roots in the Latin prefix 'ab-' (away from) and 'tenere' (to hold), reflecting the concept of holding oneself away from certain behaviors.

Cultural Practices

Many religions advocate for abstinence from certain foods or behaviors during specific periods, like Lent in Christianity.
In numerous cultures, traditional rituals involve abstaining from activities such as alcohol consumption for a period to promote health or spiritual growth.

Health and Wellness

Abstinence is often promoted as a method for preventing sexually transmitted diseases and unwanted pregnancies in sexual education.
In addiction recovery programs, abstinence from drugs or alcohol is a critical step toward maintaining sobriety.

Psychology

Studies show that practicing abstinence can lead to improved self-control and decision-making skills.
The ability to abstain may contribute to a person's overall well-being and mental health by reducing impulsive behaviors.

Literature and Philosophy

Philosophers often discuss the concept in the context of self-discipline and moral choices, emphasizing the value of restraint.
Literature often portrays abstinence as a theme, exploring characters who refrain from desires or vices in pursuit of higher goals.

Translations

Translations of the word "abstinence" in other languages:

🇵🇹 abstinência

🇮🇳 संयम

🇩🇪 Abstinenz

🇮🇩 pantang

🇺🇦 утримання

🇵🇱 abstynencja

🇯🇵 禁欲 (きんよく)

🇫🇷 abstinence

🇪🇸 abstinencia

🇹🇷 perhiz

🇰🇷 금욕

🇸🇦 الامتناع

🇨🇿 abstinence

🇸🇰 abstinencia

🇨🇳 节制 (jiézhì)

🇸🇮 abstinenca

🇮🇸 bindindi

🇰🇿 абстиненция

🇬🇪 თავშეკავება

🇦🇿 abstinensiya

🇲🇽 abstinencia

Word Frequency Rank

At position #13,488, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.

...
13485 furiously
13486 nucleic
13487 delicately
13488 abstinence
13489 align
13490 untimely
13491 cocktail
...