i am refraining

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I am refraining" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing the act of holding back or abstaining from doing something. Example: "I am refraining from making any comments until I have all the facts."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

(The lyrics are often as precisely on target, though, nonspoiler that I try to be, I am refraining from quoting them).

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

(I'm refraining from naming names, but yes, those things all happened onstage at the summit).

TechCrunch

Once, Frank was showing our apartment to potential new tenants so my roommate and I were refraining from smoking weed inside.

Vice

But I hope that you're refraining from doing so because you really don't want to -- not because you're scared or because you think there's something dirty or immoral or -- sweet Jesus help me -- slutty about it.

Huffington Post

"What I'm going to do is refrain from comment regarding what the attorney general could do," said Mr. Gormley, who is the ranking Republican on the Senate Judiciary Committee.

The New York Times

As for which investors I admire, since many of my competitors are also friends of mine, I am going to refrain from naming names for fear of insulting anyone by omission.

Forbes

But for now I am going to refrain.

Huffington Post

They particularly appreciated its "I am yours now" refrain, naming it "a typically heartfelt and bed-cuddly line that makes The xx the perfect alternative lovers band".

Wikipedia

"Who in the world am I?" is Alice's refrain.

The Guardian - Books

This is who I am," is the refrain – a moment of both defiance and absurd, touching dignity.

The Guardian

I am – pardon the refrain – no expert on religion, but I thought I would put down some of my thoughts on the caste system, and how it has affected my life.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "i am refraining" when you want to clearly state that you are consciously choosing to abstain from a particular action or behavior, especially in situations where that action might be expected or tempting.

Common error

Avoid using "i am refraining" in very casual conversation; simpler alternatives like "i'm holding back" or "i'm not going to" might sound more natural.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "i am refraining" functions as a declarative statement expressing a conscious decision to abstain from a specific action. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and readily usable in writing. This indicates its acceptance in standard English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Wiki

12%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "i am refraining" is a grammatically sound and versatile phrase used to express a conscious decision to abstain from a specific action. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is correct and usable in written English. While suitable for various contexts, it's particularly prevalent in news and media, with a slight leaning towards formality. For more casual settings, consider alternatives like "i am holding back". Understanding its nuanced use can enhance clarity and precision in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

i am abstaining

This alternative is a more formal synonym, suggesting a deliberate choice to avoid something, often for moral or health reasons.

i am holding back

This alternative is less formal, implying a temporary pause or hesitation before acting or speaking.

i am desisting

A more formal and less common alternative indicating a cessation of some action.

i am avoiding

This suggests actively staying away from something or someone.

i am forgoing

This implies giving up something desirable or valuable.

i am declining

This alternative suggests a polite refusal of an offer or invitation.

i am ceasing

A more emphatic term for stopping an action or behavior.

i am refraining myself

Adding "myself" makes the phrase slightly redundant but emphasizes personal restraint.

i am keeping myself from

This alternative emphasizes the effort involved in resisting an urge or temptation.

i am not participating

This suggests a decision to not take part in something, often an activity or event.

FAQs

What does "i am refraining" mean?

The phrase "i am refraining" means that you are consciously choosing not to do something. It implies an act of self-control or abstention.

What can I say instead of "i am refraining"?

You can use alternatives like "i am abstaining", "i am holding back", or "i am avoiding" depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "i am refraining from doing something"?

Yes, it's grammatically correct and a common usage. For example, "I am refraining from commenting until I have all the facts" is perfectly acceptable.

What's the difference between "i am refraining" and "i am hesitating"?

"I am refraining" implies a deliberate choice not to act, whereas "i am hesitating" suggests a pause or reluctance before potentially acting. The former is a decision, the latter is a state of uncertainty.