Rejected: meaning, definitions and examples

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

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

Politely saying no to an offer or invitation.

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

Casually or informally saying no to an offer or invitation.

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

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

• The teacher dismissed the student's excuse as unbelievable

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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