Rebut: meaning, definitions and examples

💬

Add to dictionary

rebut

[rɪˈbʌt ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Verb}

argument

To rebut means to argue against or provide evidence that contradicts a statement or claim made by someone else. It is a way of refuting or disproving an argument.

Synonyms

contradict, disprove, refute.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
rebut	Used in situations where one is presenting an opposing argument or evidence to counter an assertion made by someone else, often in formal or structured debates. The lawyer was able to rebut the witness's testimony by presenting new evidence. During the debate, she rebutted his claims with well-researched facts.
refute	Used in contexts where one is showing that a statement or argument is false, often with evidence or strong reasoning. Refuting is very similar to disproving but can also be used in less formal contexts. Refute can also carry a connotation of decisiveness in proving something wrong. The scientist refuted the claims with a series of experiments. His argument was quickly refuted by the opposition.
disprove	Used when presenting proof or logical reasoning to show that a statement or theory is false. It is often applied in scientific, academic, or logical discussions. The new research disproves the old theory about the origins of the disease. They worked hard to disprove the myth that vaccines cause autism.
contradict	Employed when you are stating that someone else's statement or idea is wrong or not true, directly opposing what they have said. It can be used in everyday conversations and can sometimes have a confrontational tone. His statements contradict the evidence found at the scene. She didn't want to contradict her boss in the meeting.

Examples of usage

He tried to rebut her claims with evidence from his research.
The defense attorney rebutted the prosecution's argument with a strong counterpoint.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

law

In law, a rebuttal is a response to an argument or evidence presented by the opposing party. It is a chance to counter the claims made against you.

Synonyms

counterargument, reply, response.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
rebut	Use 'rebut' when you need to provide evidence or arguments to prove that a statement or theory is wrong. It usually involves a systematic and logical approach. The lawyer aimed to rebut the claims made by the opposition She had several facts ready to rebut his assumptions
response	Use 'response' as a more formal and neutral way of addressing a question, statement, or situation. It is suitable in both written and spoken communication. Her response to the situation was calm and measured The manager drafted a formal response to the client's complaint
counterargument	Use 'counterargument' when presenting an argument that opposes or refutes another argument. This is typically used in formal debates or written essays. He presented a strong counterargument to challenge the initial proposal In her essay, she included a counterargument to show different perspectives
reply	Use 'reply' for a general response to a question, statement, or message. It is less formal and more broadly applicable compared to the other words. He didn't know how to reply to her message She smiled and replied, 'Thank you!'

Examples of usage

The plaintiff's attorney presented a strong rebuttal to the defense's case.
After the witness's testimony, the lawyer had a chance to deliver a rebuttal.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word 'rebut' comes from the Middle French 'rebattre', which means to beat back.
It entered the English language around the 16th century and originally referred to the act of defending against an accusation.
The prefix 're-' suggests a notion of doing something again, while 'but' links to opposing ideas.

Law

In legal contexts, rebuttal refers to the opportunity for a party in a trial to respond to evidence presented by the opposing side.
Rebuttals are crucial in court, as they can influence a jury’s perception and decision.
Evidence presented during rebuttals can be new or simply counter-arguments to previous points.

Debate and Rhetoric

In structured debates, the rebuttal is typically a dedicated phase where participants counter their opponents' arguments.
Good rebuttals are often based on sound reasoning, strong evidence, and effective speaking skills.
Rebuttals can help clarify misconceptions and strengthen one's position in a discussion.

Psychology

Rebuttal can trigger defensive responses, as people may feel personally attacked when their beliefs are challenged.
Being able to effectively rebut an argument is an important skill in critical thinking and persuasion.
Learning to rebut carefully can enhance communication skills and foster healthy discussions.

Pop Culture

In many TV shows and movies, characters often rebut accusations in humorous or dramatic fashion, showcasing conflict resolution.
Social media platforms see a lot of rebuttals in comments and threads, as users engage in spirited discussions over varying topics.
Online debates and forums often revolve around users attempting to rebut each other’s perspectives.

Translations

Translations of the word "rebut" in other languages:

🇵🇹 refutar

🇮🇳 खण्डन करना

🇩🇪 widerlegen

🇮🇩 membantah

🇺🇦 спростувати

🇵🇱 odrzucić

🇯🇵 反論する

🇫🇷 réfuter

🇪🇸 refutar

🇹🇷 çürütmek

🇰🇷 반박하다

🇸🇦 دحض

🇨🇿 vyvrátit

🇸🇰 vyvrátiť

🇨🇳 反驳

🇸🇮 ovreči

🇮🇸 afneita

🇰🇿 мойындамау

🇬🇪 უარყოფა

🇦🇿 təkzib etmək

🇲🇽 refutar

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #17,844, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.

...
17841 potentiality
17842 scrambling
17843 unrecognized
17844 rebut
17845 depraved
17846 disengaged
17847 moveable
...