refrain from using

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "refrain from using" is perfectly correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to advise or inform someone of something they should avoid doing. For example, you might say, "In order to be respectful of other people's opinions, please refrain from using strong language when discussing controversial topics."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"Stop consuming American products" and "refrain from using the dollar".

The Guardian - Opinion

Please refrain from using your cellphone inside this space.

The New York Times

It's a day when musicians refrain from using sharp elbows.

The New York Times

(If you are a gardener, please refrain from using chocolate mint or apple mint here).

The New York Times - Food

At one point, for example, Christian insists Ana refrain from using the bathroom.

The Guardian - Books

Mr. Prusan has instructed John and his friends to refrain from using props and cursing.

The New York Times

Please don't set your font to eight and please refrain from using dingbats.

The Guardian - Books

Nor did it promise to refrain from using sample precincts to project winners.

The New York Times

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

The Guardian

We often advise patients to refrain from using anything nonessential to reverse adverse reactions.

The New York Times

We have invited people to refrain from using them during sessions, unsuccessfully.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When instructing others, use "refrain from using" to clearly communicate the need to avoid something, especially in formal or professional settings. For example, "During the experiment, please "refrain from using" any external tools."

Common error

While "refrain from using" is grammatically sound, it can sound overly formal in casual settings. In informal conversations, consider using simpler alternatives like "avoid using" or "don't use" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "refrain from using" functions as a verb phrase that expresses a directive to avoid or abstain from a particular action. Ludwig AI indicates that this phrase is grammatically correct and frequently used in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Wiki

30%

Science

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "refrain from using" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed directive to avoid a specific action or item. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is suitable for various contexts, particularly those requiring a neutral to formal tone. When writing, consider the audience and context to determine if a more formal phrase like "refrain from using" is appropriate or if simpler alternatives such as "avoid using" or "do not use" would be more fitting. By understanding its nuances and practical applications, you can effectively incorporate "refrain from using" into your writing to convey clear and polite instructions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

avoid using

Direct synonym, replacing "refrain" with "avoid" for a slightly less formal tone.

abstain from using

More formal alternative, emphasizing a deliberate decision to not use something.

do not use

A direct and simple imperative form of avoidance.

refuse to use

Emphasizes a deliberate decision or unwillingness to use something.

desist from using

A somewhat archaic and very formal alternative to "refrain".

cease using

Indicates stopping the use of something that was previously being used.

hold back from using

Suggests a conscious effort to suppress the urge to use something.

discontinue using

Similar to "cease using", but suggests a more formal and permanent cessation.

forego using

Implies a voluntary act of giving up the use of something.

skip using

Casual and direct, implying the omission of something.

FAQs

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

You can use "refrain from using" to advise someone to avoid something. For example, "Please "refrain from using" your phone during the meeting."

What are some alternatives to "refrain from using"?

Alternatives include "avoid using", "abstain from using", or simply "do not use" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "refrain from using" or "avoid using"?

"Refrain from using" is more formal and often used in official instructions, whereas "avoid using" is more commonly used in everyday conversation. The best choice depends on the context and audience.

When should I use "refrain from using" instead of "don't use"?

Use "refrain from using" in formal settings, like official announcements or written guidelines. In casual conversations, "don't use" is generally more appropriate.