Refute: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when you provide evidence or argument that clearly shows something is wrong or false.

• The scientist refuted the old theory with new data
• He refuted the claim due to the lack of supporting evidence

Used in situations where you show that something is incorrect with evidence or logical argument.

• The experiment disproved the earlier hypothesis
• The lawyer disproved the witness's testimony

Used when someone asserts that something is not true, often without providing proof.

• He denied the accusations against him
• She denied knowing anything about the incident

Used when stating the opposite of what someone else has said, often in conversation or argument.

• She contradicted his statement during the meeting
• His actions contradict his words

Used when questioning or challenging a statement, often in a formal argument or discussion.

• The two parties disputed the terms of the contract
• He disputed the accuracy of the report

Typically used in formal or academic settings when presenting evidence or arguments to disprove a statement or theory.

• The scientist was able to refute the previous research with new experimental data.
• She refuted the allegations with documented proof of her innocence.

Used when questioning the validity or authority of something, often in a debate or contest setting.

• The lawyer challenged the witness's testimony during the cross-examination.
• He decided to challenge the existing norms and start a new trend.

Often used when being against a proposal, idea, or action, commonly in political or social contexts.

• Many people oppose the new law due to its potential negative effects.
• He firmly opposed the decision to cut the school's budget.

Typically used in formal debates or legal settings to present reasoning or evidence against an argument.

• The attorney rebutted the claims made by the prosecution.
• She provided data to rebut the accusations of fraud made against her.

Commonly used when responding to or arguing against someone's statement or action, often in conversations or debates.

• She countered his argument with strong evidence that proved her point.
• The company issued a statement to counter the false rumors about their product.

Apply when you want to show that a statement or theory is incorrect or false, usually in an argument or debate.

• The scientist was able to refute the hypothesis with new experimental data.
• He refuted the accusations with solid evidence.

Appropriate in technical or formal contexts to render a document, contract, or argument as having no legal or factual force.

• The revelation of new evidence can invalidate the previous ruling.
• Failure to meet the required conditions will invalidate the agreement.

Typically used in formal or legal contexts to make something legally null and void, effectively canceling it out.

• The new law aims to nullify previous unconstitutional policies.
• A breach of the contract can nullify the terms.

Used when declaring something legally invalid or without effect, often seen in legal, medical, or formal contexts.

• The contract was declared void due to lack of proper authorization.
• Any promises made under duress are considered void.

Used in legal or formal contexts to declare something (like a marriage, contract, or law) to be invalid or void.

• The court decided to annul the marriage due to fraud.
• The agency has the power to annul the contradictory policies.