Cool MateReject vs Veto
When to use each in English, with meaning, register, and examples.
Reject
Top 2,000 (common)B1verb
Veto
FormalTop 2,000 (common)
Most formal: Veto
| Reject | Veto | |
|---|---|---|
| Pronunciation | 🇬🇧 //rɪˈdʒɛkt//🇺🇸 //rɪˈdʒɛkt// | 🇬🇧 //ˈviːtəʊ//🇺🇸 //ˈviːtoʊ// |
| Meaning | To say no to something or someone. | To reject or prevent something from happening. |
| Example | She decided to reject the job offer due to low salary. | The president decided to veto the new legislation. |
| Register | Neutral | Formal |
| How common | Top 2,000 (common) | Top 2,000 (common) |
| CEFR level | B1 | - |
| Part of speech | verb | |
| Collocations | reject an offer, reject an idea, reject a proposal, reject a candidate | veto power, veto request, cast a veto, override a veto, veto authority |
| Antonyms | accept, embrace, approve | - |
| Common mistakes | Confused with 'refuse' - 'reject' is more formal., Using 'reject' without an object - remember to say what is being rejected. | Confusing 'veto' with 'approve' or 'authorize'., Using 'veto' without specifying what is being vetoed., Assuming 'veto' is only used in political contexts. |
| Usage notes | Use 'reject' when declining offers, ideas, or proposals. It's appropriate in formal and informal settings but may sound harsh in personal situations. | Used in formal contexts, particularly in politics. Avoid using it in casual conversation or informal writing. |
Frequently asked questions: Reject vs Veto
What's the difference between Reject and Veto?
Reject: To say no to something or someone. Veto: To reject or prevent something from happening.
Which is more formal: Reject and Veto?
Veto is the most formal of these.
Can I use Reject and Veto interchangeably?
Not always. Reject and Veto are related and overlap in some contexts, but they differ in register, how common they are, and usage, so swapping one for another can change the meaning or tone. Check the differences above before substituting.