refraining from using

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "refraining from using" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the act of intentionally avoiding or abstaining from the use of something. Example: "The committee decided on refraining from using plastic straws to promote environmental sustainability."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

35 human-written examples

By death, they mean that they will all bless us by refraining from using social media until they have been brought back to life by a donation of $1 million from their fans.

Huffington Post

Even refraining from using your phone might not be enough in certain situations.

University of California, Berkeley

Mr. Busin also said the rebels were refraining from using heavy weaponry to avoid civilian casualties.

The New York Times

While farmers plan to continue refraining from using herbicides and pesticides, no one knows if the crane will return.

The New York Times

Shabangu was far keener to emphasise the importance of each member government keeping its sovereignty rather than each government refraining from using diamonds to abusive ends.

The Guardian

To test that theory, the OHR has deliberately used a light touch in recent years, refraining from using the tools provided by Dayton to intervene in Bosnian governance.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

25 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

He refrains from using popular acronyms like "WTF".

The New York Times

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

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about conscious choices, clarify the reason behind "refraining from using". This provides context and strengthens the impact of your statement.

Common error

While grammatically correct, "refraining from using" can sound overly formal in casual conversation. Opt for simpler alternatives like "not using" or "avoiding" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "refraining from using" functions as a gerund phrase, acting as a noun. It describes the action of intentionally avoiding the use of something. Ludwig AI confirms this is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Academia

32%

Science

20%

Less common in

Wiki

7%

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "refraining from using" is a grammatically sound and versatile gerund phrase used to describe a deliberate choice to avoid utilizing something. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a correct and usable expression. While common in news, academic, and scientific writing, it can also appear in more general contexts. For clarity, specify the reason behind the action and be mindful of maintaining an appropriate tone for your audience. Consider alternatives like "avoiding the use of" or "abstaining from using" to fine-tune the nuance of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

abstaining from using

Focuses more directly on the act of willingly choosing not to use something.

avoiding the use of

Highlights the act of staying away from using something, possibly due to negative consequences.

forgoing usage of

Suggests a deliberate decision to give up the use of something, often for a specific reason.

desisting from using

Emphasizes ceasing to use something, often implying a previous habit or practice.

not utilizing

A more formal and direct way of saying not using.

eschewing the use of

Implies a strong aversion to using something, often for moral or ethical reasons.

shunning the utilization of

Indicates a deliberate avoidance and rejection of using something.

doing without

Focuses on managing or coping in the absence of something.

going without using

Highlights the action of proceeding without the assistance or resources provided by something.

ceasing the use of

Formal way to express stopping using something.

FAQs

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

You can use "refraining from using" to describe the act of intentionally avoiding something. For example, "The company is "refraining from using" single-use plastics to reduce its environmental impact."

What are some alternatives to "refraining from using"?

Alternatives include "avoiding the use of", "abstaining from using", or simply "not using", depending on the context.

Is it better to say "refraining to use" or "refraining from using"?

"Refraining from using" is the correct and grammatically preferred form. "Refraining to use" is not standard English.

What is the difference between "avoiding using" and "refraining from using"?

"Avoiding using" generally implies staying away from something, while ""refraining from using"" suggests a more conscious and deliberate choice not to use something. The latter often implies a moral or ethical consideration.