wiser to refrain from

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "wiser to refrain from" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when suggesting that it is more prudent or sensible to avoid a particular action or behavior. Example: "In this situation, it would be wiser to refrain from making any hasty decisions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

But lawmakers would be wise to refrain from imposing sanctions that take effect while negotiations proceed.

The Washington Post

But Rodriguez might be wise to refrain from flaunting his numbers too much, because Jeter could always dredge up the R-word: Rings.

The New York Times - Sports

Herein, there lies further room for legal exploration though it is safe to say that companies would be wise to refrain from asking these employees to participate.

HuffPost

Author response: It might be wise to refrain from an explicit philosophical discussion and simply take this last statement of Doolittle as a legitimate opinion which it is.

Biology Direct

It is wise to refrain from additional treatment for at least 2 or 3 weeks, until the acute inflammatory effects disappear.

Clinical interventions in aging

Until the results of those studies are known, it seems wise to refrain from introducing heliox into routine practice because of the costs of the gas.

Critical Care

In case of a previous diagnosis of cancer, it might be wise to refrain from anti-TNF-therapy until further data appear.

Arthritis Research and Therapy

Although online dating has a western origin, it is wise to refrain from putting up an accent or talk in a westernized format.

WikiHow

As alcohol is not always fully "cooked out" in food (such as adding wine to sauces), it is still seen as containing alcohol, it is wise to refrain from these foods as well.

WikiHow

It's also wise to refrain for several days after ovulation as well for the same reason.

WikiHow

Here, the wise magistrate is not causally determined to refrain from streaking to make people laugh.

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Pair "wiser to refrain from" with a clear explanation of the potential negative consequences if the advice isn't heeded, enhancing the persuasiveness of your recommendation.

Common error

While "wiser to refrain from" is grammatically correct, it can sound overly formal or stilted in casual conversation. Opt for simpler alternatives like "better to avoid" or "shouldn't do" in less formal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "wiser to refrain from" serves as a recommendation or suggestion, advising against a particular action. It implies that avoiding the action is the more prudent or sensible course. This is evident in Ludwig's examples where it suggests refraining from imposing sanctions during negotiations or asking employees to participate in certain tests.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Science

33%

Wiki

29%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "wiser to refrain from" is a phrase used to recommend caution or abstinence, suggesting that avoiding a particular action is the more prudent choice. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is grammatically sound and suitable for various contexts, particularly in news, science, and general advice. When using this phrase, consider the formality of the situation, as it may sound overly formal in casual settings. Alternatives like "better to avoid" or "should abstain from" might be more appropriate in informal conversations. Remember that while offering guidance is important, explaining the reasoning behind that guidance makes the phrase even more effective.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it's prudent to avoid

Focuses on prudence and avoidance rather than wisdom specifically.

it's advisable to abstain from

Emphasizes abstinence as a recommended course of action.

it would be judicious to steer clear of

Uses 'judicious' to highlight sound judgment in avoiding something.

it's sensible to hold back from

Highlights the sensibility and restraint in not participating.

it's strategic to bypass

Suggests that avoiding something is a calculated move for a better outcome.

it's circumspect to evade

Focuses on being wary and carefully avoiding something.

it's thoughtful to resist

Implies conscious and considerate resistance.

it's tactical to forgo

Indicates that choosing not to do something is a calculated strategy.

it's insightful to elude

Emphasizes understanding and perception in avoiding something.

it's astute to circumvent

Highlights cleverness in finding a way to avoid something.

FAQs

How can I use "wiser to refrain from" in a sentence?

You can use "wiser to refrain from" to suggest a more prudent course of action, such as, "It would be wiser to refrain from making any hasty decisions in this situation."

What's a simpler way to say "wiser to refrain from"?

Alternatives include phrases like "better to avoid", "should abstain from", or "it's best not to", depending on the context and level of formality you desire.

In what situations is it appropriate to use the phrase "wiser to refrain from"?

This phrase is suitable in situations where careful consideration and judgment are important, such as giving advice, making recommendations, or suggesting caution in formal or professional settings.

What is the difference between "wiser to refrain from" and "should refrain from"?

"Wiser to refrain from" implies a thoughtful assessment and suggests that avoidance is the more prudent option. "Should refrain from" is a more direct recommendation, simply indicating what one ought to avoid without necessarily emphasizing the wisdom behind it.