refrain from posting

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "refrain from posting" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when asking someone to avoid making a post or sharing content, often in online contexts or discussions. Example: "In order to maintain a respectful environment, we kindly ask all members to refrain from posting any offensive material."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

31 human-written examples

Please refrain from posting spoilers if you've seen beyond episode nine (Trou Normand).

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Why? NOTE: We ask that adults respect the intent of the Student Opinion question and refrain from posting here.

The New York Times

NOTE: We ask that adults respect the intent of the Student Opinion question and refrain from posting here.

The New York Times

Last week, I received a wedding invitation requesting that attendees refrain from posting pictures on social media.

The Guardian - Opinion

This blog is for Fargo viewers watching the Sunday night UK transmission on Channel 4 – if you've seen ahead, please refrain from posting advance spoilers.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Spoiler alert: this recap is for viewers of Deutschland 83 on Channel 4 and Walter Presents, please refrain from posting details from later episodes if you've see more.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

29 human-written examples

On a recent school trip to the White House, Mr. Stelter said, he saw numerous television sets tuned to the Fox News Channel -- but he refrained from posting that observation at his site, lest he betray his background.

The New York Times - Tech

Without offering a response, my friend removed the image from Facebook, and refrained from posting for some time.

Huffington Post

If you refrain from reckless posting it can be a great tool that helps cast a wider net in your search.

Huffington Post

The agency outlined tips residents should follow to protect themselves, which included refraining from posting mobile numbers on social media networks and keeping profiles private.

Vice

Authorities have asked news outlets to voluntarily refrain from showing or posting the video clip, but bootlegged copies are being shared across social media and attacks continue to mount.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When asking others to "refrain from posting", clearly state the reason for the request to ensure understanding and cooperation. For example, specify whether it's due to spoiler concerns, privacy, or maintaining a formal atmosphere.

Common error

Avoid using "refrain from posting" in casual contexts where a simpler phrase like "don't post" would be more appropriate. The level of formality should match the setting.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "refrain from posting" functions as a directive or request, urging individuals to abstain from sharing content. Ludwig's examples show its use in various contexts, from social media guidelines to wedding etiquette.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "refrain from posting" is a directive used to ask or instruct people not to share content, often online. Ludwig AI confirms it is grammatically correct. Its usage spans across various contexts, from media to personal requests, primarily aiming to prevent unwanted information sharing such as spoilers or private content. Although considered correct, it can sound overly formal in casual conversation, where phrases like "don't post" might be more suitable. Predominantly found in News & Media, it's essential to consider the context and audience when employing this phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

refrain from sharing

Similar to the original phrase, but focuses on the act of sharing content.

avoid posting

Emphasizes the act of keeping away from posting.

avoid sharing

Emphasizes the act of keeping away from sharing.

abstain from posting

Highlights a voluntary decision not to post something.

do not post

A direct and simple command not to post.

hold back from posting

Suggests an internal struggle or hesitation before posting.

inhibit posting

Focuses on preventing or suppressing the act of posting.

desist from posting

A more formal way of saying to stop posting.

cease posting

Indicates a complete stop to the action of posting.

discontinue posting

Suggests an end to a regular or ongoing practice of posting.

FAQs

How can I politely ask someone to "refrain from posting"?

You can use phrases like, "Could you please "avoid posting" spoilers?" or "We kindly ask you to "abstain from posting" photos of the event on social media."

What's a less formal way to say "refrain from posting"?

In a more casual setting, you could say "don't post that" or "please "avoid sharing" this information."

Is it ever appropriate to use "refrain from posting" in business communication?

Yes, it is appropriate, especially when setting guidelines for employees or addressing sensitive information. For example, "All employees must "refrain from posting" confidential company data on social media."

What's the difference between "refrain from posting" and "avoid posting"?

"Refrain from posting" often implies a more formal or deliberate decision to abstain, while ""avoid posting"" is a more general recommendation to steer clear of posting something.