refrain from provoking

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "refrain from provoking" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when advising someone to avoid instigating or irritating another person or group. Example: "In order to maintain a peaceful environment, it is important to refrain from provoking others during discussions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

American officials have been pressuring Mr. Chen to refrain from provoking China since he narrowly won re-election in March.

The New York Times

Vitali Klitschko, the boxer-turned-opposition leader, had urged supporters in Independence Square to remain calm and refrain from provoking the police.

Independent

Hizbullah may keep its arms and sustain "resistance" to Israel but should refrain from provoking Israeli attack and let other Lebanese get on with business.

The Economist

Iran's National Security Council reinforced Ayatollah Khamenei's warning on Saturday, state media reported, telling Mr. Moussavi to "refrain from provoking illegal rallies".

The New York Times

Turkey should also take advantage of Israel's official apology and refrain from provoking Israel, ending verbal incitements to restore civility to the diplomatic relations with Israel.

Huffington Post

"We call on all parties to refrain from provoking and threatening each other, whether in words or actions, and not let the situation get to an irreversible and unmanageable stage," Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi told reporters in Beijing.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

She described Jewish-Israeli stunable unable to refrain from cursing and provoking Arab-Israeli students.

The New York Times

"In particular, we call on the parties to refrain from actions that provoke further violence.

The New York Times

Governments must also refrain from suppressing speech for supposedly provoking violence when it is really those who object to the speech who are violent.

The Guardian - Opinion

China has repeatedly urged the United States to refrain from taking action that might provoke a trade war, arguing that both countries would be hurt.

The Washington Post

Patients are advised to refrain from all (sports-) activities that provoke pain, and to find alternative exercises to keep in shape.

BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "refrain from provoking" when you want to strongly advise someone to avoid actions or words that could incite a negative reaction or escalate a conflict. This phrase emphasizes a deliberate choice to avoid confrontation.

Common error

While grammatically correct, "refrain from provoking" can sound overly formal in casual conversation. Opt for simpler alternatives like "don't start anything" or "avoid teasing" to maintain a natural tone in informal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "refrain from provoking" functions as an imperative, typically used to advise or instruct someone to avoid actions or words that might incite anger, conflict, or negative reactions. This is aligned with Ludwig's assessment of the phrase as grammatically correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "refrain from provoking" is a grammatically correct phrase used to advise against actions that might incite conflict or negative reactions. As noted by Ludwig, it is suitable for use in written English. While generally neutral in tone, it is most frequently found in news and media contexts. When writing, use it to emphasize the importance of avoiding confrontation, but consider simpler alternatives in informal settings. The sources, including those from authoritative publications, underscore its utility in promoting restraint and de-escalation. Overall, while less common, this phrase is a useful tool for clear and considered communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

avoid instigating

Focuses on preventing the start of conflict, rather than just avoiding provocation.

desist from inciting

Emphasizes stopping oneself from stirring up negative feelings or actions.

abstain from aggravating

Highlights refraining from making a situation worse.

refrain from irritating

Focuses on avoiding actions that cause annoyance or frustration.

avoid inflaming tensions

Specifically addresses the avoidance of escalating tense situations.

hold back from agitating

Stresses the restraint from actions that might stir up trouble.

decline to antagonize

Indicates a deliberate choice not to create hostility or opposition.

shun antagonizing

Means to deliberately avoid making someone angry or hostile.

evade provoking

Focuses on steering clear of situations that could lead to provocation.

not incite

Directly advises against spurring or urging on negative actions.

FAQs

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

You can use "refrain from provoking" to advise someone to avoid actions or words that could incite a negative reaction. For example, "In order to maintain a peaceful environment, it is important to refrain from provoking others during discussions."

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

You can use alternatives like "avoid instigating", "desist from inciting", or "abstain from aggravating" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "refrain from provoking"?

This phrase is suitable in formal or serious contexts where it's important to strongly advise against actions that could lead to conflict or escalation. It is suitable for professional or formal conversation.

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

"Refrain from provoking" suggests a more conscious and deliberate effort to not incite, while "avoid provoking" can imply simply steering clear of situations that might lead to provocation.