abstención

abstention

noun abs-ten-SYOHN Rare

Usage Note

Abstención is most common in political and electoral contexts, referring to a deliberate refusal to vote or to participate in a decision. It is not the same as abstinencia (abstinence from food, alcohol, or substances). In parliamentary procedure, casting an abstención is formally distinct from voting yes or no.

Examples

"La abstención en las elecciones fue muy alta."

Natural Translation

Voter abstention in the elections was very high.

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