# abstersiveness

CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/abstersiveness
Updated: 2026-05-18

## Definition

the quality of being very careful not to do something, especially something that might be wrong or harmful. It is a formal word for being very cautious or avoiding certain actions.

For teachers: the quality of being abstemious or cautious in one's actions, particularly regarding the avoidance of harmful or morally questionable behavior. Often used in formal or literary contexts to describe a disciplined lifestyle.

## Examples

- His abstersiveness helped him stay healthy.
- The monk's abstersiveness from worldly pleasures allowed him to focus entirely on his spiritual studies.
- The committee's abstersiveness in the face of public pressure ensured that the final decision remained purely objective and free from political bias.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.