Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Refusal Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

❌
Add to dictionary

refusal

[rɪˈfjuːzəl ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

in a formal situation

The act of refusing to accept or comply with something; the act of declining or rejecting something offered or requested.

Synonyms

declination, denial, rejection, repudiation.

Examples of usage

  • He submitted his resignation without any refusal from the company.
  • She met his proposal with a firm refusal.
  • The refusal of the government to negotiate led to further tensions.
  • The refusal to pay the ransom resulted in dire consequences.
  • The refusal to sign the contract was unexpected.
Context #2 | Noun

in everyday conversation

A polite way of saying 'no' to something or someone.

Synonyms

declination, denial, no, rejection.

Examples of usage

  • His refusal to join the party was met with understanding.
  • I had to make a refusal to babysit as I had other commitments.
  • The refusal to lend him money was a difficult decision.
  • She made a refusal to attend the meeting due to illness.
  • Politely declining an invitation is a form of refusal.
Context #3 | Noun

legal context

A formal rejection of a request, claim, or demand.

Synonyms

declination, denial, rebuff, rejection.

Examples of usage

  • The court issued a refusal of the petition for a retrial.
  • The refusal of the insurance claim left the family in a difficult situation.
  • The refusal of the application for a visa was disappointing.
  • His refusal to comply with the court order led to legal consequences.
  • She received a refusal of her request for an extension.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Refusal can be a crucial part of setting personal boundaries, helping individuals maintain their sense of self and autonomy.
  • In social psychology, the act of refusing can influence group dynamics, often leading to changes in how group members view conformity.

Legal Context

  • In legal terms, refusal might refer to the rejection of a contract or offer, which can carry significant implications.
  • Certain laws protect individuals from consequences when they refuse to comply with unlawful requests or demands.

Cultural References

  • In literature, characters often experience pivotal moments of refusal, leading to conflict and growth, like in many hero's journey narratives.
  • Songs and movies frequently explore themes of refusal, capturing the tension and drama of saying 'no' to love or societal expectations.

Origin of 'refusal'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'refusare', which means to reject or decline.
  • In the 14th century, it entered the English language, reflecting a growing need to articulate negative consent.

The word 'refusal' originated from the Old French word 'refusaille' which meant 'rejection'. It came into the English language in the late 14th century. The concept of refusal has been present in human interactions throughout history, as individuals have always had the choice to accept or decline offers or requests. The act of refusal can vary in formality and politeness depending on the context. Understanding when and how to refuse something is an important aspect of communication and decision-making.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #3,887, this word is part of upper-intermediate vocabulary. While not among the most basic terms, it appears often enough to be valuable for advanced communication.