Rejected Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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rejected

[rɪˈdʒɛktɪd ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

feeling

Refuse to accept (something or someone).

Synonyms

decline, dismiss, refuse, repudiate, turn down.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
rejected

When something or someone is not accepted, often because it does not meet a certain standard or expectation.

  • Her application was rejected because she did not meet the qualifications
refuse

Firmly saying no to someone's request or offer, often implying a strong will or reason.

  • He refused to lend me the money because he needed it himself
decline

Politely saying no to an offer or invitation.

  • I had to decline the dinner invitation because I was feeling unwell
turn down

Casually or informally saying no to an offer or invitation.

  • She turned down the job offer because it didn't match her career goals
dismiss

To decide that something or someone is not important or worth considering.

  • The teacher dismissed the student's excuse as unbelievable
repudiate

Formally rejecting something as untrue or unjust, often in a legal or formal context. This word carries a stronger, more formal connotation.

  • The politician repudiated the accusations against him

Examples of usage

  • He rejected any suggestion of a return to active politics
  • She rejected his suggestion
  • I was rejected by every publishing house in town
Context #2 | Verb

relationship

Dismiss as inadequate, inappropriate, or not to one's taste.

Synonyms

exclude, ignore, ostracize, shun, snub.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
rejected

Used when something or someone is not accepted, often after a consideration or request.

  • She got rejected by the university she applied to.
  • His proposal was rejected by the committee.
ostracize

Used when someone is deliberately excluded from a social group, often in a formal or severe manner.

  • The community ostracized him after the scandal.
  • In ancient Athens, citizens could be ostracized for ten years.
exclude

Used when deliberately leaving someone out of a group or activity.

  • They decided to exclude him from the team due to his behavior.
  • The policy excludes anyone under the age of 18.
shun

Used when someone is deliberately avoided or turned away from, often due to disapproval.

  • He was shunned by his peers after his mistake.
  • They shun modern technology in favor of traditional methods.
ignore

Used to indicate paying no attention to someone or something.

  • She decided to ignore the rumors spreading about her.
  • He ignored the message and didn't reply.
snub

Used when someone treats another person disrespectfully by ignoring or rejecting them.

  • He felt snubbed by not being invited to the party.
  • She snubbed him when he tried to say hello.

Examples of usage

  • She was rejected by her family
  • He felt rejected and unwanted
Context #3 | Noun

feeling

The action of dismissing or refusing something.

Synonyms

declination, denial, dismissal, refusal, repudiation.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
rejected

Used when something or someone is not accepted, approved, or considered suitable. Often used in personal or professional scenarios.

  • Her application to the university was rejected
  • He felt rejected after he was not invited to the party
refusal

Indicates a firm decision not to accept or agree to something. It can be used in both everyday and formal situations.

  • She gave a firm refusal to the proposal
  • His refusal to cooperate caused delays in the project
declination

A formal or polite refusal of an offer or invitation. More commonly used in written communication.

  • She sent a letter of declination for the job offer
  • His polite declination of the invitation was appreciated
repudiation

A strong and formal rejection of something, often associated with a refusal to be associated with someone or something. It has a more serious or legal tone.

  • The politician's repudiation of the controversial policy was clear
  • There was public repudiation of the new law
denial

Used when someone refuses to acknowledge or accept a truth or fact. Often used in psychological or confrontational contexts.

  • His denial of the accusations surprised everyone
  • She is in denial about her health condition
dismissal

Refers to the act of sending someone away or deciding that something is not worth considering. Common in employment contexts or legal situations.

  • His dismissal from the company was unexpected
  • The court ruled for the dismissal of the case

Examples of usage

  • The rejection of his application
  • She couldn't bear the rejection

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Experiencing rejection can trigger feelings akin to physical pain, as studies show it activates the same areas in the brain.
  • Fear of rejection is a common fear that can lead individuals to avoid social situations or new opportunities.

Pop Culture

  • Many songs and movies explore themes of rejection, often portraying heartbreak or overcoming obstacles.
  • The reality TV show 'American Idol' features contestants facing rejection during auditions, highlighting personal stories of resilience.

Literature

  • In classic literature, characters often face rejection as a major plot point, illustrating themes of loneliness or the quest for acceptance.
  • Famous novels like 'Pride and Prejudice' feature elements of social rejection and the impact it has on relationships.

Education

  • In academic settings, students may face rejection when applications to colleges or programs are not accepted, impacting their future choices.
  • Learning to cope with rejection is crucial in education, as it teaches resilience and encourages personal growth.

Origin of 'rejected'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'reicere,' which means 'to throw back.'
  • In English, 'rejected' has been used since the late 14th century to express exclusion or dismissal.

The word 'rejected' originated from the Latin word 'reicere', which means to throw back. The concept of rejection has been prevalent throughout history, as humans have always had to make choices about what to accept or refuse. In psychology, rejection is often associated with feelings of hurt, disappointment, and exclusion. It plays a significant role in interpersonal relationships and self-esteem. Understanding how to cope with rejection is an important aspect of emotional resilience and personal growth.


See also: reject, rejecter, rejection.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #2,638, this word belongs to solid intermediate vocabulary. It's frequently used in both casual and formal contexts and is worth learning for better fluency.