but refrain from

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "but refrain from" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when instructing someone to avoid doing something or to hold back from a particular action. Example: "Please feel free to express your opinions, but refrain from using offensive language."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

45 human-written examples

This might sound counter-intuitive to some, but refrain from selling your brand to people.

The Guardian

Those randomly assigned not to stretch must continue their normal exercise routine but refrain from stretching for 13 weeks.

The New York Times - Health

Meet for lunch, by all means, but refrain from discussing any relationship problems openly in the office.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

I study some small, smooth pebbles on the beach, but refrain from any expression that would imply belief.

The New York Times - Magazine

Analysts say Mr. Muto would promote more aggressive policies than Mr. Shirakawa but refrain from the more radical measures advocated by some other candidates.

The New York Times

In those countries, the biggest parties also use Facebook to reach voters, but refrain from grabbing data about their Facebook friends, according to secure.me.me

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

15 human-written examples

Connecticut sprayed from trucks, but refrained from aerial spraying.

The New York Times

Mayor Gregor Robertson promised an inquiry but refrained from criticizing the police.

The New York Times

The police questioned many of them but refrained from sweeping arrests.

The Economist

One person involved says an announcement is likely soon, but refrained from being more specific.

The New York Times

It condemned the massacre in Damascus, but refrained from blaming Syria's government for it.But the difference hardly mattered.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "but refrain from", ensure that the contrasting element is clear and that the action being refrained from is undesirable or inappropriate in the given context. This makes the sentence more impactful and easier to understand.

Common error

While grammatically correct, "but refrain from" can sound overly formal in casual conversation. Consider using simpler alternatives like "but don't" or "but avoid" in informal settings to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "but refrain from" serves as a conjunction introducing a contrasting clause that suggests abstinence or avoidance of a particular action. As Ludwig AI points out, the phrase is grammatically sound and suitable for various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

31%

Wiki

26%

Science

24%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "but refrain from" is a grammatically correct and versatile conjunction used to indicate a contrast followed by an action to be avoided. According to Ludwig AI, it is a usable phrase in written English. While its formality makes it suitable for professional or academic writing, simpler alternatives like "but avoid" or "but don't" might be preferred in casual conversation. Usage patterns show that "but refrain from" is most frequently found in news media, wikis, and scientific contexts. Remember to use this phrase when you wish to provide clear, albeit somewhat formal, guidance by suggesting an action to be avoided.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

however avoid

Replaces "refrain from" with the simpler "avoid", keeping the contrasting "however".

yet avoid

Similar to "however avoid" but with "yet" for a slightly different emphasis.

yet abstain from

Uses "yet" as a contrast and "abstain from" as a formal alternative to "refrain from".

still abstain from

Similar to "yet abstain from" but with "still" maintaining a slightly different flow.

though hold back from

Substitutes "but" with "though" and "refrain" with "hold back", creating a less formal tone.

while desisting from

Employs "while" for contrast and "desisting from" for a more sophisticated abstention.

nonetheless don't engage in

Uses "nonetheless" for contrast and replaces "refrain from" with "don't engage in", changing the structure.

even so don't

A shorter form using "even so" for contrast and a simple "don't" to imply refraining.

but abstain

A shorter, more direct form focusing on the act of abstaining.

but do not

Uses a simple negation to convey the meaning of refraining.

FAQs

How can I use "but refrain from" in a sentence?

Use "but refrain from" to introduce a contrasting action that should be avoided. For example, "You can express your opinion, "but refrain from" using offensive language."

What are some alternatives to "but refrain from"?

Alternatives include "however avoid", "yet abstain from", or simply "but do not", depending on the desired level of formality.

Is "but refrain from" too formal for everyday conversation?

Yes, in most casual conversations, "but don't" or "but avoid" might be more appropriate. "But refrain from" is better suited for formal writing or situations where a more serious tone is required.

What is the difference between "but refrain from" and "but avoid"?

"But avoid" is a more general recommendation to steer clear of something. "But refrain from" implies a more conscious effort to hold oneself back from a specific action. The choice depends on the nuance you want to convey.