abstain ab-STAYN verb WS #1

to voluntarily refrain from an action, particularly one considered improper or unhealthy; to choose not to vote in a formal decision

1. She decided to abstain from eating meat for health reasons.
2. During the vote, three members abstained, resulting in a tie.
3. The doctor advised him to abstain from alcohol while taking the medication.
4. Many religious observers abstain from certain foods during holy periods.
5. He chose to abstain from commenting on the controversial issue.