Negation: meaning, definitions and examples

Use this when referring to the act of denying or nullifying something, often in philosophy or logic.

• The philosopher explained the concept of negation in relation to existentialism.
• His argument was strong, but it met with immediate negation from the opposing side.

Refer to this when talking about something that is completely different from something else in every way.

• He's the opposite of his brother; while one is outgoing, the other is shy.
• The North Pole is the opposite of the South Pole in terms of geographical location.

Often used in a psychological or personal context to imply refusing something as true, especially when the truth is obvious. Denial can sometimes have a negative connotation.

• Despite the evidence, she remains in denial about her addiction.
• His denial of the facts only made the situation worse.

This is used when you want to describe a situation where two or more statements, ideas, or actions are opposed to each other.

• There is a contradiction in her story; she says she was at home, but the witnesses saw her at the park.
• His actions are a contradiction to his words.

Use when you want to state the contradiction or refusal of something, often in a philosophical or symbolic sense.

• His actions were a negation of all the principles he once stood for

Appropriate when referring to refusing to accept the truth or reality of a fact or situation, often in a psychological context.

• She was in denial about the severity of her illness

This is suitable when talking about refusing to accept, approve, or consider something or someone, often in a concrete or personal context.

• Her application for the job received a rejection

Best used when someone is formally rejecting a connection or responsibility for something.

• The politician issued a disavowal of the controversial remarks attributed to him

Use this word when you want to express the action of denying something in a general sense, often in discussions related to philosophy or logic.

• The statement of the negation must be logically sound.
• Her arguments are a complete negation of previous theories.

This word is used when someone is refusing to accept or acknowledge something. It’s often used in legal or formal contexts and can have a negative connotation.

• She will deny all allegations against her.
• He denied knowing anything about the incident.

Employ this word when someone is stating the opposite of what another person has said, often in conversations or debates. This word can sometimes carry a slightly negative connotation.

• He seemed to contradict himself multiple times during the meeting.
• Her testimony will contradict the statements given by other witnesses.

Choose this word when you are providing evidence or arguments to show that something is not true. It is often used in scientific or logical discussions.

• The scientist aimed to disprove the old hypothesis.
• They were able to disprove the myth with concrete evidence.