C1noun2K

Denial

UK /["/dɪˈnaɪəl/"]/US /["/dɪˈnaɪəl/"]/

Definition

a statement that something is not true or does not exist; the action of denying something

In simple words: Not accepting the truth about something.

Examples

  • Her denial of the accusations surprised everyone in the courtroom.
  • The company's denial that their product caused the problem was quickly refuted by evidence.
  • Denial of access to the facility was strictly enforced for unauthorized personnel.
  • Psychologists often study denial as a defense mechanism to protect individuals from painful realities.
  • She was in a state of denial about her illness and refused to see a doctor.
  • The government’s denial of any responsibility led to public outrage.
  • Denial of service attacks can cripple network systems by overwhelming them with traffic.
  • Faced with overwhelming evidence, his denial was no longer believable.

Usage notes

Used when someone refuses to accept reality or facts. Can be appropriate in psychological contexts, but avoid it in casual conversations as it may sound too serious.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of 'deny' and imagine someone blocking the truth like a wall.

Collocations

  • firm
  • strong
  • vehement
  • issue
  • make
  • denial from
  • in denial
  • firm
  • strong
  • vehement
  • issue
  • make
  • denial from
  • in denial
  • firm
  • strong
  • vehement
  • issue
  • make
  • denial from
  • in denial

Synonyms

  • refusal
  • rejection
  • disavowal
  • negation
  • disbelief

Antonyms

  • acceptance
  • acknowledgment

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'refusal' which implies rejecting an offer rather than a truth.
  • Using it with the wrong preposition, e.g., 'in denial of' instead of 'in denial about'.