declined

word · lemma: decline

Definition

'Declined' is the past tense of 'decline'. It means someone refused or said no to something, or it can mean that something went down, decreased, or became worse.

Usage & Nuances

Used formally and informally. 'Declined' can refer to politely refusing offers, invitations, or requests, or to numbers or quality going down (e.g., 'sales declined'). Often confused with 'denied', but 'denied' means to say something is not true or not allowed.

Example Sentences

He declined the invitation to the party.

basic

Her health declined over the winter.

basic

Sales declined last year.

basic

I politely declined when he offered to pay for dinner.

natural

My grandfather's eyesight has declined with age.

natural

She declined to comment when asked about the rumors.

natural