Abstinence Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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abstinence
[หรฆb.stษช.nษns ]
Definitions
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.
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| restraint |
Implies controlling one's actions or emotions, often to avoid excess or harm.
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| 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.
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| sobriety |
Specifically refers to the state of being sober, especially from alcohol or drugs, and can also imply seriousness.
|
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.
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.
|
| celibacy |
Used specifically to refer to the state of abstaining from marriage and sexual relations, often for religious or spiritual reasons.
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| 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.
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| 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.
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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.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
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.
Origin of 'abstinence'
Main points about word origin
- 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.
The word 'abstinence' originated from the Latin word 'abstinentia', meaning 'refraining'. It has been used in various contexts throughout history, including health, religion, and education. The concept of abstinence has been promoted for its benefits in promoting self-control, discipline, and health. It continues to be a topic of discussion in modern society, particularly in relation to alcohol, food, and sexual activity.