In denial Meaning in English
expression
ˈɪn/, /ɪn/ /dɪˈnaɪəɫ
in dih-NY-uhl
ˈɪn/ /dɪnˈaɪəl
in dih-NY-uhl
Definition
Refusing to accept or admit that something unpleasant or true has happened or is real.
Usage & Nuances
Commonly used in informal spoken English and psychology; usually about refusing to face reality (e.g., addiction, loss). 'In denial' often follows 'be' verbs. Not typically used for trivial matters.
Spanish: en negaciónPortuguese (BR): em negaçãoPortuguese (PT): em negaçãoChinese (Simplified): 否认中 - 拒绝承认Chinese (Traditional): 否認中 - 拒絕承認Hindi: इंकार मेंArabic: في حالة إنكارBengali: অস্বীকারে থাকা - বাস্তবতা স্বীকার না করাRussian: отрицать проблему - жить в отрицанииJapanese: 現実を認めない - 否認しているVietnamese: chối bỏ thực tại - không chấp nhận sự thậtKorean: 부정하다 - 현실을 인정하지 않다Turkish: inkâr etmek - gerçeği kabul etmemekUrdu: انکار میں ہوناIndonesian: menyangkal - hidup dalam penolakan
Example Sentences
She is in denial about her illness.
basic
Many people are in denial after losing a loved one.
basic
He is still in denial about his addiction.
basic
You're totally in denial if you think you don't need help.
natural
Sometimes being in denial is a way to protect yourself.
natural
My dad was in denial about getting older until he needed reading glasses.
natural