refrain from

refrain from (doing something)

To make a considered, conscious effort not to do something. I ask everyone to refrain from asking questions until the end of the presentation. Please refrain from talking while you are in the library.See also: refrain

refrain from something

to hold back from doing something; to choose not to do something as planned. I wish you would refrain from shouting. Please refrain from hollering.See also: refrain

refrain from

v. To make a conscious decision not to do something: All passengers must refrain from smoking during the flight.See also: refrain