I need to 'abstain from' eating [=I need to not eat] for at least 12 hours before my blood test.
Ten members voted for the proposal, six members voted against it, and two 'abstained'.
He 'abstained from' taking part in the discussion.
(..) I have a proposition to make to all of you. I'm going to call for another vote. I want you eleven men to... vote by secret written ballot. I'll abstain. If there are eleven votes for guilty, I won't stand alone. We'll take in a guilty verdict to the judge right now. But if anyone votes not guilty, (..)1957 12 Angry Men