Dear fediverse. Is this a correct English sentence?
"What potion does Prof. Lupin drink to refrain from turning into a werewolf?"
@seanl I knew there was some reason why I felt it was the wrong word. I just couldn't put my finger on it. But you described it. Thanks!
@forteller looks good to me (Northern California, USA)
@jannamark Thanks! You don't agree with @seanl here? https://social.literati.org/@seanl/99694713097150157
That depends on the idea you are expressing, and how you wish to express it.
The word "refrain" could speak to the overwhelming desire to howl, to chase, and to rip sweet flesh with sharp teeth. If the professor still feels a longing to do so when bathed in moonlight, even after drinking the potion, then "refrain from" or "resist" might do.
"Prevent" or "avoid" suggests an action done to avert an unwanted outcome, like eating one's tasty friends.
@jannamark @seanl Good point! :D Thanks!
@forteller maybe "keep from turning into a werewolf?" not that this is more correct, but if you're looking for something that sounds more casual.
@Iuckyduck I like that. Thanks!
@forteller you're welcome!
@forteller "Which potion" sounds better to me.
@forteller it's technically correct, but a bit awkward. I would replace "refrain from" with "avoid".
@forteller there's a lot of good points in the other comments. Some addenda:
Which vs. what - which implies there are several options applicable to the situation, what implies there's just one. But that's not a strict convention.
Alternates for "refrain from" depend a lot on the degree of personal volition involved in not being a werewolf.
Degree of formality is important. "Refrain from passing gas on the aeroplane" is more formal than "don't fart on the plane", with the same meaning.
@forteller I think so. I'm a native speaker and fairly formal, but not a grammarian or a linguist.
@forteller Refrain implies not doing something you want to do, so I'd replace "refrain from" with "prevent".