Refrain Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ต
refrain
[rษชหfreษชn ]
Definitions
in music
A repeated line or phrase in a song or poem, typically at the end of each verse.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| refrain |
Used to describe a repeated line or phrase in a song or poem. It can also refer to holding back from doing something.
|
| chorus |
Refers to a part of a song that is repeated after each verse, often the most memorable and catchy part.
|
| verse |
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.
|
| line |
Describes a single row of words in a poem, song, or any written work. It can also mean a queue or a boundary.
|
Examples of usage
- The chorus of the song serves as the refrain.
- He couldn't get the refrain out of his head.
from doing something
Stop oneself from doing something.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| refrain |
Used when choosing not to do something, often in a formal situation or to maintain decorum.
|
| abstain |
Typically used when deliberately choosing not to participate in something, often for moral, ethical, or health reasons.
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| forbear |
Often used in legal or formal contexts to imply patience or self-control in not doing something.
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| hold back |
Commonly used in everyday language to describe stopping oneself from expressing emotions, actions, or words.
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Examples of usage
- She had to refrain from laughing during the serious meeting.
- He refrained from commenting on the issue.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Literature
- In poetry and songs, a refrain is a repeated line or phrase that emphasizes an idea or feeling.
- Famous examples include 'Nevermore' from Edgar Allan Poe's poem 'The Raven', which serves as a haunting refrain.
- Refrains can also create rhythm and connections in storytelling, drawing listeners back into the central theme.
Psychology
- Choosing to refrain can enhance self-control, a skill linked to better decision-making and emotional regulation.
- Studies suggest that refraining from immediate desires can lead to greater long-term satisfaction and healthier habits.
- Understanding personal triggers can help in practicing the art of refraining, aiding in personal development.
Music
- Refrains in music are similar to choruses, often making songs catchy and easy to remember.
- Famous songs use refrains to evoke emotional responses, leading to sing-alongs and collective enjoyment.
- In composition, a refrain can establish a theme that reappears throughout the piece, reinforcing its message.
Pop Culture
- Reality TV often highlights moments where contestants fail to refrain from bad behavior, leading to drama.
- Social media influencers might use refrains in their content, encouraging followers to refrain from negativity or self-doubt.
- Catchphrases in movies can act as cultural refrains, reminding audiences of important lessons or themes.
Origin of 'refrain'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Old French 'refraindre', meaning to 'hold back'.
- Its Latin root, 'refrainere', means to 'restrain' or 'hold back', showing its history of self-control.
- The term has evolved through languages, reflecting cultural values on discipline and moderation.
The word 'refrain' originated from the Old French word 'refraindre', which means 'to hold back'. It first appeared in English in the late 14th century. Initially used in music to denote a repeated phrase, it later expanded to include the idea of holding back or abstaining from something.
See also: refraining, refrainment.