1To act with care; to be discreet or cautious, often implying holding back one's words or behavior (usually written 慎む).
重要な場では言葉遣いを慎むべきだ。
You should be careful with your language on important occasions.
夜道では一人で歩くのを慎んだほうがいい。
It's better to avoid walking alone on streets at night.
軽率な発言は慎みたい。
I want to refrain from making careless remarks.
2To moderate or refrain from excess; to practice restraint, e.g., in eating, drinking, or behavior (usually written 慎む).
健康のために飲酒を慎んでいる。
I'm refraining from drinking alcohol for my health.
ダイエット中なので間食を慎んでいる。
I'm avoiding snacks because I'm on a diet.
派手な服装は結婚式では慎んだほうがいい。
It's better to avoid flashy outfits at a wedding.
3To show reverence or behave with respectful, formal courtesy; written 謹む and used in greetings, ceremonies, and other formal settings.
謹んでお悔やみ申し上げます。
Please accept my heartfelt condolences.
新年のご挨拶を謹んで申し上げます。
I would like to humbly extend my New Year's greetings.
4To be purified or chaste (an older or more religious usage).
神に仕える者は身を慎むことが求められた。
Those who served the gods were required to keep themselves pure.