I refrain from using

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I refrain from using" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when expressing a conscious decision to avoid using something, often for personal, ethical, or stylistic reasons. Example: "In my writing, I refrain from using jargon to ensure clarity for all readers."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

The constraint of my piece, as hinted at by the title, is that I refrain from using 10 new words per paragraph —picked, in order from first to last, from the list of the 100 words most commonly used in English.

Princeton University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

The incident between the two women's glossies (note how I refrained from using the term catfight?) had a sequel of sorts today when Condé Nast's GQ threw its Paul Smith embossed calfskin briefcase in the direction of NatMags' Esquire, over the same issue.

The Guardian

Panesar b Lyon 2 (England 255 all out) England's effort (I shall refrain from using adjectives until their yield of 255 runs is put into perspective by Australia) comes to an end at the conclusion of the 100th over, Panesar deciding to leave one of Lyon's alone and is bowled.

The Guardian - Sport

"Normally I would refrain from using the word 'most'," he relates.

BBC

This fascinating Dinglehopper is a WiFi connected love machine, that lets both the top and the bottom (I'll refrain from using genders here — to each his/her own) simulate some sexy time.

TechCrunch

From online business travel guides I've picked up that that many Indian women may prefer not to shake hands, and that I should refrain from using first names in business meetings.

BBC

"I had many more ideas, and I had to refrain from using them, which is hard, it's like acting.

The New York Times

Now that he has publicly disowned the statement, I will certainly refrain from using it".

The Guardian

Ask questions to show you're listening, respond with the words "I understand" or "I hear you" and refrain from using the words "ya, but".

WikiHow

For my part, I have decided to refrain from using in my writing after this post.

Forbes

I ask you to refrain from using "alt-right" and to illuminate this movement for what it really is: racism.

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "I refrain from using" when you want to convey a deliberate and conscious choice to avoid something, often for stylistic, ethical, or personal reasons. It adds a level of formality to your writing.

Common error

While "I refrain from using" is grammatically correct, it can sound overly formal or stilted in casual conversation. Consider using simpler alternatives like "I avoid using" or "I don't use" for everyday communication.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I refrain from using" functions as a declarative statement expressing a conscious choice to avoid utilizing something. Ludwig AI validates this usage, showing its role in conveying intentional avoidance. This statement sets a clear intention in writing or speech.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Academia

25%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Science

10%

Formal & Business

8%

Encyclopedias

7%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "I refrain from using" is a grammatically correct and usable expression in written English, signifying a conscious decision to avoid something. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is particularly suited for formal and neutral contexts such as news articles, academic papers, and professional communications. While simpler alternatives like "I avoid using" exist, "I refrain from using" adds a layer of formality. Remember to reserve this phrase for situations where you want to emphasize a deliberate choice to abstain. Keep in mind the contexts described to better express your intent through text.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I am refraining from using

Uses the continuous form of "refrain", emphasizing the ongoing nature of the decision.

I avoid using

Directly replaces "refrain" with "avoid", indicating a simple act of keeping away from something.

I deliberately avoid using

Emphasizes the intentional nature of avoiding something.

I abstain from using

Replaces "refrain" with "abstain", suggesting a more deliberate and often moral decision to not use something.

I consciously avoid using

Highlights the awareness and mindfulness in avoiding something.

I choose not to use

Emphasizes the conscious decision to not use something, highlighting personal choice.

I decline to use

Suggests a formal refusal to use something, often implying that it was offered or available.

I don't use

A simple and direct way of stating that you do not use something.

I am not using

Focuses on the present action of not using something.

I make it a point not to use

Highlights the deliberate effort to avoid using something.

FAQs

What does "I refrain from using" mean?

The phrase "I refrain from using" means that you consciously choose to avoid using something, whether it's a word, a product, or a particular behavior. It suggests a deliberate decision to abstain.

When is it appropriate to use "I refrain from using"?

It is appropriate to use "I refrain from using" when you want to emphasize a deliberate choice to avoid something, often for stylistic, ethical, or personal reasons. It's suitable for formal writing and speech.

What can I say instead of "I refrain from using"?

You can use alternatives like "I avoid using", "I choose not to use", or "I abstain from using" depending on the context.

Is "I refrain from using" more formal than "I avoid using"?

Yes, "I refrain from using" is generally considered more formal than "I avoid using". "Refrain" carries a more deliberate and conscious connotation, making it suitable for formal contexts.