Denial Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ซ
denial
[dษชหnaษชษl ]
Definitions
in psychology
Denial is a defense mechanism in which a person refuses to acknowledge the existence of a painful reality or emotion.
Synonyms
disbelief, refusal, rejection.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| denial |
Situations where someone does not accept the truth or reality of a fact or situation.
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| refusal |
When a person explicitly says no to a request or offer.
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| rejection |
When someone or something is not accepted, often giving a feeling of being unwanted or not good enough; can have a negative connotation.
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| disbelief |
When someone finds something hard to accept as true or is shocked by new information.
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Examples of usage
- He was in denial about his addiction to alcohol.
- She lived in denial of her husband's infidelity.
in legal terms
Denial is a statement in which a person or organization states that they did not do something that they are accused of.
Synonyms
disavowal, rejection, repudiation.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| denial |
Denial is used when someone refuses to accept something as true or real, often despite evidence. It can be used in various contexts, including personal, psychological, and societal situations.
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| rejection |
Rejection occurs when someone or something is refused or turned down. It is commonly used in both personal and professional contexts to indicate that something is not accepted.
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| disavowal |
Disavowal is used when someone formally denies responsibility or support for something, often something they were previously associated with. It tends to have an official or public connotation.
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| repudiation |
Repudiation is used when someone refuses to acknowledge or accept something, often with strong negative implications. It can refer to dismissing authority, responsibility, or a relationship.
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Examples of usage
- The defendant's denial of the crime was unconvincing.
- The company issued a denial of any involvement in the scandal.
in general terms
Denial can also refer to the action of refusing someone access to something or refusing a request.
Synonyms
declination, refusal, rejection.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| denial |
Use 'denial' when someone refuses to accept the truth or a reality. This term often has a psychological or strong emotional connotation associated with it.
|
| refusal |
Use 'refusal' when someone is not willing to do something or accept something. It often carries a straightforward and firm sense of not agreeing or complying.
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| rejection |
Use 'rejection' when something or someone is not accepted, often in a social or professional context. It usually carries a strong emotional impact and can have a negative connotation.
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| declination |
Use 'declination' in a more formal or technical setting, particularly when talking about a polite refusal or the act of declining formally.
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Examples of usage
- The denial of entry to the nightclub disappointed many party-goers.
- His denial of her plea for help left her feeling abandoned.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Denial is a defense mechanism that helps people cope with difficult emotions or situations.
- People may enter denial after traumatic events as a way to avoid feeling overwhelmed by the reality.
- In therapy, recognizing denial is often a first step in helping someone confront and deal with their issues.
Literature
- Denial is a common theme in literature, representing characters who resist facing their truths, like in Shakespeareโs 'Hamlet.'
- Authors often use denial to build tension, leading to a powerful moment of revelation or acceptance.
- In dystopian novels, denial can reflect society's refusal to accept harsh realities, creating a commentary on denial in real life.
Health
- Denial can be particularly prevalent in addiction, where individuals may refuse to acknowledge their substance abuse.
- Research shows that denial can impede recovery, as it prevents individuals from facing the need for change.
- Mental health awareness campaigns often address denial to educate people on recognizing their own struggles.
Pop Culture
- Denial is a powerful theme in popular films and TV shows, often depicted in characters grappling with loss or change.
- Songs like 'I Will Survive' reflect denial and eventual acceptance, resonating with many listeners.
- Reality TV often showcases denial as contestants refuse to accept their game predicament, adding drama to the story.
Philosophy
- Denial raises questions about human nature and our ability to confront uncomfortable truths.
- Philosophers explore the concept as a form of human self-preservation, suggesting that ignorance can be a natural response to pain.
- Existential thinkers often discuss denial in the context of death, pondering how it impacts our lives and choices.
Origin of 'denial'
The word 'denial' originated from the Old French word 'denier', meaning 'to deny'. It has been used in English since the 16th century. The concept of denial has been studied extensively in psychology, highlighting its role as a coping mechanism in facing difficult truths or emotions.
See also: denier, deny, undeniable, undeniably.