Synonyms for

Refuse

Verb / rʌˈfju:z / / ˈreˌfju:z / / rɪˈfju:z / Another word for refuse — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

to say no or not accept something offered or asked for

Synonyms & similar words

lendoneself reject decline garbage turnaway turndown deny defy admit scraps allow passup resist accept foodwaste decline reject deny disagree disapprove object rebuff repudiate spurn withhold abstain forbid prohibit refrain resist shun veto defy disallow

Synonyms by register

Formal

reject decline rebuff spurn

Informal

turn down say no to pass on brush off

Literary

deny repudiate

Antonyms

accept agree allow approve consent yield acquiesce

Common collocations

  • refuse to accept
  • refuse to cooperate
  • refuse to answer
  • refuse to pay
  • refuse to grant
  • refuse entry
  • refuse permission

Word family

noun refusal
verb refuse

Usage note

The noun 'refuse' (pronounced with stress on the first syllable) refers to garbage or waste, which is distinct from the verb 'refuse' (stressed on the second syllable).

Example sentences

  1. I will refuse to cheat on the test.
  2. He will refuse to eat the food if it's spicy.
  3. She will refuse to go to bed early.
  4. The hotel will refuse to let you stay if you don't have a reservation.
  5. The store will refuse to accept returns without a receipt.

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