How to Say "to refrain" in Spanish
The Spanish word for “to refrain” is “abstenerse” — B1 level.
Examples
Debes abstenerte de comer dulces antes de la cena.
You must refrain from eating sweets before dinner.
Me abstengo de opinar en este asunto.
I refrain from giving my opinion on this matter.
El médico le recomendó abstenerse de beber alcohol.
The doctor recommended that he abstain from drinking alcohol.
The 'Tener' Connection
This verb follows the exact same pattern as the very common verb 'tener' (to have). If you know 'tuve', you know 'abstuve'!
Using the 'De' Bridge
When you want to say what you are refraining from, always use the word 'de' before the next action or thing.
The Missing 'Se'
Mistake: “Yo abstengo de comer pan.”
Correction: Me abstengo de comer pan. Because it is a 'doing-it-to-myself' verb (reflexive), you need the 'me', 'te', 'se' pronouns.
Related Translations
Learn Spanish with Inklingo
Interactive stories, personalized learning, and more.