abstention

noun

1. The act of choosing not to vote, especially in an election or on a particular proposal.

   B2

   countable or uncountableformal

   • "The motion passed despite several abstentions."B2
   • "The senator's abstention from the vote was seen as a political statement."B2
   • "The high level of abstention suggested that many voters were dissatisfied with the candidates."C1

2. The act of deliberately avoiding or refraining from something.

   C1

   uncountableformal

   • "His abstention from alcohol improved his health."B2
   • "The agreement called for mutual abstention from hostile actions."C1