How to Pronounce Abstain

To pronounce "abstain", say ABST-ain — 2 syllables, IPA /əbˈsteɪn/. Tap play below to hear it in four English accents, or practice it syllable by syllable.

abstain

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Accent

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Speed

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2

Syllables

7

Letters

/əbˈsteɪn/

IPA

💡 Tip for remembering “abstain”

"abstain" has 2 syllables: abst-ain. It rhymes with ascertain and disdain, if that helps it stick.

What does abstain mean?

verb

  1. Keep or withhold oneself.
  2. Refrain from (something or doing something); keep from doing, especially an indulgence.

    “In order to improve his health, Rob decided to abstain from smoking.”

Synonyms

denyforbearforgogive uprefrainrelinquishwithhold

Words that rhyme with abstain

Practicing rhymes trains the same ending sounds.

ascertaindisdainsustaininanemundanestrainattainprofaneplainbaneretaindomain

Related words

refraindesistrefrainingabstentionwithholdforbeardenyforgo

Frequently asked questions

How many syllables are in "abstain"?▾

"Abstain" has 2 syllables: abst · ain.

What is the IPA transcription of "abstain"?▾

The IPA transcription of "abstain" is /əbˈsteɪn/.

What does "abstain" mean?▾

Abstain: Keep or withhold oneself.

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