Reject: meaning, definitions and examples
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reject
[rɪˈdʒɛkt ]
Definition
to refuse something
Reject means to refuse to accept, believe, or consider something. It can also mean to dismiss as inadequate, inappropriate, or not meeting the required standards. When you reject something, you are saying no to it or denying its validity.
Synonyms
decline, deny, disapprove, refuse, repudiate.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| reject |
Use when something is dismissed outright or deemed unacceptable, often with a sense of finality. Can also refer to physical objects.
|
| decline |
Appropriate for polite refusals, commonly used in formal or semi-formal situations.
|
| refuse |
Implies a strong, direct rejection or unwillingness to accept something, often used in everyday conversation.
|
| deny |
Used when refuting a statement, accusation, or claim. Can carry a strong connotation and is often defensive.
|
| disapprove |
Expresses a feeling of moral, ethical, or personal disagreement, often carries a judgmental nuance.
|
| repudiate |
A formal and emphatic way to reject, often used in legal, official, or serious contexts. It can be a bit harsh.
|
Examples of usage
- He rejected the job offer because it didn't meet his salary expectations.
- She rejected his apology and refused to forgive him.
- The committee rejected the proposal due to lack of funding.
- I would never reject a heartfelt gesture from a friend.
- The university rejected my application for admission.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word comes from the Latin 'rejectus', meaning 'thrown back', which gives a clue to its meaning.
- In English, the term has been used since the late 14th century, primarily in the context of refusing or dismissing.
- It combines the prefix 're-' (meaning back) with 'jacere' (to throw), emphasizing the idea of throwing away or dismissing.
Psychology
- Rejection can trigger feelings of sadness or anxiety, impacting a person's mental well-being.
- Social rejection often leads to a pain response in the brain similar to physical pain, highlighting its emotional impact.
- Studies have shown that perceived rejection can affect decision-making and lead to seeking acceptance more aggressively.
Pop Culture
- The concept of rejection is a common theme in movies and songs, often symbolizing heartbreak or personal growth.
- In reality shows, contestants often face rejection during auditions or eliminations, adding drama to the narratives.
- The phrase 'I reject your reality' gained popularity from the TV series ‘Mythbusters’, often used humorously to dismiss untrue claims.
Literature
- Many literary heroes face rejection, with stories highlighting their struggles against societal or personal disapproval.
- A classic example is Elizabeth Bennet in 'Pride and Prejudice', who repeatedly navigates societal rejection due to her wit and independence.
- Authors often use rejection as a catalyst for character development, leading to deeper self-discovery and resilience.
Science
- In evolutionary biology, rejection can refer to how organisms reject foreign cells, aiding in survival against diseases.
- The effect of rejection in social species shows how bonding relies heavily on acceptance, influencing population dynamics.
- In vaccine science, rejection of foreign substances by the body is a critical factor in developing effective immunizations.
Translations
Translations of the word "reject" in other languages:
🇵🇹 rejeitar
🇮🇳 अस्वीकार करना
🇩🇪 ablehnen
🇮🇩 menolak
🇺🇦 відхилити
🇵🇱 odrzucić
🇯🇵 拒否する (きょひする)
🇫🇷 rejeter
🇪🇸 rechazar
🇹🇷 reddetmek
🇰🇷 거절하다
🇸🇦 رفض
🇨🇿 odmítnout
🇸🇰 odmietnuť
🇨🇳 拒绝 (jùjué)
🇸🇮 zavrniti
🇮🇸 hafna
🇰🇿 қабылдамау
🇬🇪 უარყოფა
🇦🇿 rədd etmək
🇲🇽 rechazar