abstention (C1)

noun

Pronunciation: /əbˈstenʃən/

Definition

The act of formally choosing not to vote in an election or on a proposal.

Examples

• The motion failed due to a large number of abstentions.

• Her abstention from the vote was noted in the minutes.

• There were 50 votes in favor, 30 against, and 20 abstentions.

How to Use abstention

abstention from (prepositional phrase)

Choosing not to do or participate in something. — "The monk's life was one of prayer and abstention from worldly pleasures."

Synonyms of abstention

Words with a similar meaning to abstention:

• non-participation
• non-voting
• refusal to vote

Antonyms of abstention

Words with the opposite meaning to abstention:

• participation
• voting
• affirmative vote

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