C1noun2K

Refusal

UK /["/rɪˈfjuːzl/"]/US /["/rɪˈfjuːzl/"]/

Definition

an act of saying or showing that you will not do, give or accept something

In simple words: saying no to something

Examples

  • His refusal to cooperate with the investigators delayed the entire process.
  • The company's refusal to lower its prices disappointed many customers.
  • She showed a clear refusal to participate in the project due to ethical concerns.
  • His refusal of the job offer was unexpected given his previous enthusiasm.
  • A refusal can sometimes indicate a need to reconsider one’s priorities.

Usage notes

Use 'refusal' in contexts where someone is formally declining an offer or request. It's more appropriate in written or serious spoken contexts, not casual conversations.

Grammar pattern

refusal + to + verb

Memory hint

Think of 'refusal' like a 'refusal' to budge — standing firm in your decision.

Collocations

  • absolute
  • adamant
  • blank
  • be met by
  • be met with
  • accept
  • refusal by
  • refusal of
  • a refusal of consent
  • refusal on… grounds

Synonyms

  • denial
  • rejection
  • decline
  • negation

Antonyms

  • acceptance
  • agreement
  • approval
  • consent

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'refuse' as a verb and 'refusal' as a noun.
  • Using 'refusal' in informal situations where 'no' would be better.
  • 'Refusal' might be mistakenly thought to imply anger, but it can be a polite decline.