refrained from continuing

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "refrained from continuing" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when indicating that someone chose not to proceed with an action or activity. Example: "Despite the challenges, she refrained from continuing the discussion that was becoming too heated."

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

In return, Mr. Marchionne asked that regulators refrain from continuing to describe the vehicles as defective.

The New York Times

"Government lawyers * * * should also refrain from continuing litigation that is obviously pointless, that could easily be resolved, and that wastes Court time and taxpayer money.

Harvard University

"I call on Israel to refrain from continuing on this dangerous path, which will undermine the prospects for a resumption of dialogue and a peaceful future for Palestinians and Israelis alike.

The New York Times

refrain from continuing to download something if Norton says it is untrustworthy.

WikiHow

He also said he would refrain from discussing his continuing confrontation with the Yankees and Major League Baseball, and if he is asked about it, he will end the interview.

The New York Times - Sports

The ABA Model Code expressly states that a "government lawyer in a civil action or administrative proceeding has the responsibility to seek justice" and "should refrain from instituting or continuing litigation that is obviously unfair". EC 7-14; see also City of Los Angeles v. Decker, 18 Cal.3d 860, 135 Cal.

Harvard University

After officials explicitly banned the burning of flags at a demonstration in front of Berlin's central railway station last week, protesters refrained from doing so even as they continued to voice strong attacks against Israel.

The Washington Post

Typically, Wasserstein refrained from commenting.

The New Yorker

He refrained from visiting Yasukuni.

The Economist

Israel refrained from direct retaliation.

The Economist

585 persons refrained from participating.

The Journal of Headache and Pain

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "refrained from continuing" to denote thoughtful decisions against actions that could have potential negative outcomes.

Common error

While grammatically correct, "refrained from continuing" can sound overly formal in casual conversation. Consider using simpler alternatives like "stopped" or "didn't continue" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "refrained from continuing" functions as a verb phrase, typically used to express a deliberate decision to halt or cease an action. It indicates conscious self-restraint in the face of an ongoing or potential activity. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

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Less common in

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "refrained from continuing" is a grammatically correct way to express a conscious decision to stop an action or activity. Although the examples count is missing, Ludwig AI confirms its usability. It's more formal than simpler alternatives like "stopped" or "didn't continue", which may be preferred in casual settings. When employing this phrase, ensure the context is clear and that a simpler expression would not suffice. Understanding its nuances will help you effectively communicate deliberate choices and strategic decisions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

chose not to continue

This is a straightforward alternative, expressing a deliberate decision against continuing.

opted to discontinue

Implies making a choice to end something that was already in progress.

desisted from proceeding

This alternative uses more formal language, implying a deliberate decision to stop an action.

abstained from pursuing

This suggests a conscious choice to not chase after or engage in something further.

ceased to proceed

This indicates a formal stop, emphasizing the termination of an ongoing action.

halted further action

This directly states that additional steps or activities were stopped.

stopped short of proceeding

This implies nearing a certain point but deciding not to go further.

declined to go forward

This suggests a refusal to advance or progress in a particular matter.

avoided proceeding further

This implies circumventing additional involvement or development.

withheld from furthering

This suggests actively preventing something from progressing or developing.

FAQs

What does "refrained from continuing" mean?

The phrase "refrained from continuing" means that someone consciously decided not to proceed or persist with a particular action, activity, or behavior. It implies a deliberate choice to stop something that was already underway or contemplated.

What are some alternatives to "refrained from continuing"?

Some alternatives include "chose not to continue", "stopped short of proceeding", or "desisted from proceeding", depending on the specific context.

Is "refrained from continuing" formal or informal?

The phrase "refrained from continuing" tends to be somewhat formal. In more casual settings, simpler expressions like "stopped" or "didn't continue" may be more appropriate.

How can I use "refrained from continuing" in a sentence?

Example: "Despite the increasing pressure, the negotiator "refrained from continuing" the talks until all parties were willing to compromise."