Synonyms for

Declined

Verb / dɪˈklaɪnd / Another word for declined — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

To politely refuse an offer or request.

Synonyms & similar words

refuse reject decline wane worsen turndown godown passup accept slump better correct reject refuse deny dismiss ignore spurn rebuff repudiate disapprove disallow veto scorn snub shun avoid eschew

Synonyms by register

Formal

refused rejected rebuffed spurned

Informal

turned down said no to passed on blew off

Literary

forsook shunned abjured

Antonyms

accepted agreed approved welcomed supported assented affirmed

Common collocations

  • declined an offer
  • declined to comment
  • declined sharply
  • declined significantly
  • declined to participate
  • declined the invitation
  • declined to answer

Word family

noun decline
verb decline
adjective declining

Usage note

Often used in formal contexts to politely refuse something. Be mindful of the context; 'declined' can also mean to decrease or deteriorate.

Example sentences

  1. I declined the offer to eat more cake because I was already full.
  2. She declined the job offer because she found a better opportunity.
  3. The athlete declined to comment on the controversy surrounding his team.
  4. He declined to join the group because he didn't agree with their beliefs.
  5. I politely declined the invitation to the wedding because I had a prior commitment.

Quotes

  • I have declined to speak with journalists since I was misquoted in 1966. I have made no exceptions.
  • I have declined offers to appear on 'Dancing With the Stars', 'Celebrity Apprentice', and 'Splash'.
  • I have declined to take part in a debate with him because the audience would be too large.

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