Definition of “Refused”
The word “refused” is the past tense of “refuse,” which means to decline, reject, or not accept something. It implies a deliberate decision to deny an offer, request, or demand.
Synonyms of “Refused”
Strongest Matches (Exact Equivalents)
- Rejected
- Declined
- Denied
- Dismissed
- Disallowed
- Opposed
- Rebuked
- Repudiated
- Spurned
- Vetoed
Strong Matches (Similar in Meaning)
- Avoided
- Barred
- Countered
- Disregarded
- Excluded
- Ignored
- Neglected
- Overruled
- Prevented
- Prohibited
- Withheld
Weak Matches (Related but Not Direct Equivalents)
- Hesitated
- Postponed
- Resisted
- Objected
- Questioned
- Waived
- Suspended
- Differed
Example Sentences Using “Refused”
- She refused to sign the contract without consulting her lawyer.
- The store refused to issue a refund after 30 days.
- He politely refused the invitation to the wedding.
- They refused to back down despite immense pressure.
- The teacher refused to accept late assignments.
- After several warnings, he refused to comply with the new rules.
- She refused a second helping of dessert.
- The government refused to approve the controversial policy.
- The athlete refused to take performance-enhancing drugs.
- He refused to acknowledge his mistakes.
Contextual Usage of “Refused”
- Legal Context: “The judge refused the appeal on the grounds of insufficient evidence.”
- Business Context: “The CEO refused the merger offer due to financial concerns.”
- Social Context: “She refused to engage in gossip about her colleagues.”
- Personal Context: “He refused to give up on his dreams despite numerous setbacks.”
- Medical Context: “The patient refused treatment against medical advice.”
- Political Context: “The senator refused to support the proposed bill.”
Related Words
- Nouns: Refusal, Denial, Rejection, Opposition, Dismissal
- Adjectives: Unyielding, Stubborn, Adamant, Uncompromising, Unrelenting
- Verbs: Reject, Deny, Decline, Dismiss, Resist, Oppose
Common Phrases with “Refused”
- “Refused to budge”
- “Refused entry”
- “Refused an offer”
- “Refused to comment”
- “Refused outright”
- “Refused point-blank”
Difference Between “Refused” and Similar Words
- Refused vs. Rejected: “Rejected” often implies a more final or formal dismissal, whereas “refused” can be temporary or situational.
- Refused vs. Denied: “Denied” is often used in contexts where access, permission, or rights are withheld.
- Refused vs. Declined: “Declined” is usually more polite or formal, while “refused” may indicate stronger opposition.
- Refused vs. Ignored: “Ignored” means no response was given, whereas “refused” is an active decision.
Additional Information
- Etymology: Derived from Old French “refuser,” which means “to reject, disown.”
- Pronunciation: /rɪˈfjuːzd/ (past tense of refuse), /rɪˈfjuːz/ (present tense refuse)
- Frequency of Usage: Common in everyday speech and writing, particularly in formal and legal contexts.
Disclaimer
This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal, professional, or linguistic advice. Definitions, synonyms, and usage may vary based on context and dialect.
