Question #N1338
The use of the phrase “refrain from” suggests that the speaker believes that the reader will be tempted to do something they should avoid, which is to look at their phone during the lecture. To explain what the speaker believes about the reader, it is most effective to continue by explaining what the reader is likely to be tempted to do during the lecture. What is the most likely reason why the writer uses the phrase “refrain from” in the sentence?
In the sentence, "I ask that you refrain from looking at your phones during my lecture," the phrase “refrain from” is used to
A. imply that the reader is not allowed to use their phone during the lecture.
B. emphasize the speaker’s request that the reader avoid using their phone.
C. suggest that the reader might be tempted to use their phone during the lecture.
D. warn the reader that they will be punished if they use their phone during the lecture.
Correct Answer is: C
The phrase "refrain from" suggests that the speaker believes that the reader will be tempted to look at their phone during the lecture. The writer uses this phrase to emphasize the speaker’s request that the reader avoid using their phone during the lecture.