noun
die Enthaltung, -en
abstention
Definition & meaning
The German noun Enthaltung refers to the act of refraining from something or holding back. Depending on the context, it can have two primary meanings:
- Abstention: In a political, parliamentary, or formal voting context, it refers to the act of not casting a vote for or against a motion or candidate, even though one is present.
- Refrainment/Abstinence: The act of intentionally avoiding or abstaining from a specific behavior, activity, or substance (e.g., alcohol, food, or sexual activity).
Grammar & Word origin
- Grammar: It is a feminine noun (die Enthaltung, plural: die Enthaltungen).
- Word origin: It is derived from the verb enthalten (to contain/to abstain). The prefix ent- in this context denotes separation or the negation of an action, combined with the root halten (to hold). Literally, it describes "holding oneself away" from an action.
Synonyms & antonyms
Synonyms:
- Stimmenthaltung (specifically for voting)
- Verzicht (renunciation/forgoing)
- Abstinenz (abstinence)
- Zurückhaltung (restraint)
Antonyms:
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Examples
Seine Enthaltung bei der Abstimmung war überraschend.noun
His abstention during the vote was surprising.
Eine Enthaltung kann das Ergebnis der Abstimmung beeinflussen.noun
An abstention can influence the result of the vote.
Bei der Wahl gab es mehrere Enthaltungen.noun
In the election, there were several abstentions.
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