refuse
word
/ˈɹɛfˌjuz/
ri-FYOOZ (verb), REF-yoos (noun)
/ˈɹɛfˌjuz/
ri-FYOOZ (verb), REF-yoos (noun)
Definition
To say or show that you will not accept, do, or allow something. It is often used when someone does not agree to a request, offer, or suggestion.
Usage & Nuances
Common patterns are 'refuse to do something' and 'refuse an offer/request'. It is stronger and more direct than 'not want to'. In formal contexts, it can sound firm; in everyday speech, it may suggest clear opposition.
Spanish: rechazar - negarse aPortuguese (BR): recusar - se recusar aPortuguese (PT): recusar - recusar-se aChinese (Simplified): 拒绝 - 拒绝接受Chinese (Traditional): 拒絕 - 拒絕接受Hindi: इंकार करना - मना करनाArabic: يرفض - يمتنع عنBengali: প্রত্যাখ্যান করা - অস্বীকার করাRussian: отказываться - отказатьJapanese: 断る - 拒否するVietnamese: từ chốiKorean: 거절하다 - 거부하다Turkish: reddetmekUrdu: انکار کرنا - رد کرناIndonesian: menolak
Example Sentences
She refused the gift.
basic
He refuses to answer my question.
basic
The dog refused to move.
basic
I refused to pay for something I didn't order.
natural
She refused to back down, even after everyone disagreed.
natural
He flat-out refused my offer.
natural