Verbs for Lack of Action

to resist or hold back from doing or saying something

Despite the urge to argue, she will refrain from responding to the critical comments.

to avoid doing something, especially something that one enjoys

They regularly abstain from consuming alcohol for personal reasons.

to stop doing something, particularly in response to a request, command, or understanding that it should be discontinued

The company was ordered to desist from any further illegal practices.

to hold back from an action or behavior

Even in the midst of the serious meeting, John couldn't forbear a grin at his colleague's witty comment.

to move away from a person, thing, or situation

The hiker encountered a bear and wisely chose to back off slowly.

to spend time in a place, often without a specific purpose or activity

After school, the students like to hang around the playground until their parents arrive.

to waste time relaxing and doing nothing

The student procrastinated on their homework, lying around in bed until the last minute.

to not leave until a person or thing is ready or present or something happens

We're patiently waiting for the rain to stop.

to remain in one spot with nothing to do, expecting something to happen

We waited around for hours at the bus stop due to the delayed schedule.

to spend time doing nothing or nothing productive

On weekends, I just like to sit around and watch TV.

to pause before saying or doing something because of uncertainty or nervousness

When asked about the promotion, Sarah hesitated before responding.

to refrain from taking action when it is necessary

In times of crisis, it's crucial not to stand by but to offer assistance and support.

to prevent someone or something from advancing or crossing a particular point

The soldiers held back the advancing enemy forces with determination.

to watch an event or incident without getting involved

Passers-by simply looked on as the two men argued heatedly on the sidewalk.

to spend time standing in a place without doing anything purposeful or without having a particular reason to be there

We had to stand around for an hour waiting for the bus to arrive.

to do without or give up on something desirable

In an effort to save money, Tom chose to forgo his daily coffee shop visits and make coffee at home.

to delay leaving or staying in a place after everyone else has departed

She decided to hang back at the office to finish some work after her colleagues had gone home.

to move without urgency, often in a casual or relaxed manner

He loitered through the crowded streets, taking his time to admire the buildings and shop displays.