Refrain: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe a repeated line or phrase in a song or poem. It can also refer to holding back from doing something.

• In the song, the chorus keeps repeating the refrain 'let it be'
• 'Please refrain from talking during the movie
• '

Refers to a part of a song that is repeated after each verse, often the most memorable and catchy part.

• Everyone sang along to the chorus of the popular song
• 'The kids love the chorus because it's easy to remember
• '

A section of a song or poem, usually consisting of several lines that form a unit. It tells a part of the story or delivers a message.

• The song has three verses and a repeated chorus
• 'In the second verse, the singer talks about lost love
• '

Describes a single row of words in a poem, song, or any written work. It can also mean a queue or a boundary.

• She forgot the lines of her poem during the recital
• 'Please stand in line to buy tickets
• '

Used when choosing not to do something, often in a formal situation or to maintain decorum.

• Please refrain from smoking in the building
• She refrained from commenting on his rude behavior

Typically used when deliberately choosing not to participate in something, often for moral, ethical, or health reasons.

• He decided to abstain from alcohol during the month of January
• Many people abstain from voting due to disinterest or dissatisfaction

Often used in legal or formal contexts to imply patience or self-control in not doing something.

• He decided to forbear from taking any legal action against his neighbor
• She could only forbear her anger during the lengthy meeting

Commonly used in everyday language to describe stopping oneself from expressing emotions, actions, or words.

• She had to hold back tears during the movie
• Don't hold back your opinions during the discussion