Synonyms: abstain, forbear
Refrain Sentence: She is trying to refrain from sex before marriage.
Under The Lens: Difference between Abstain, Forbear and Refrain
Abstain means to hold oneself back voluntarily, especially from something regarded as improper or unhealthy. Ex :- He abstains from smoking during office hours.
Forbear suggests self-control, usually out of patience or charity. Ex – He forbore to hit his child even though she abused him in front of everyone.
Refrain usually suggests withholding an action temporarily or not giving in to momentary desire. Ex – Due to his weight problem, he refrained from eating bakery products for a year.