refusal

noun

re·​fus·​al ri-ˈfyü-zəl 

1

: the act of refusing or denying

2

: the opportunity or right of refusing or taking before others

Synonyms

• declination
• denial
• disallowance
• nay
• no
• nonacceptance
• rejection
• turndown

Examples of refusal in a Sentence

My request for more money was met with a flat refusal.

his flat refusal of our reasonable request was rather startling

Recent Examples on the Web

Their refusal, says Dr. Carmichael, who co-wrote a study on the Detroit case, stemmed partly from a history of negative experiences with the city. —Jingnan Peng, The Christian Science Monitor, 4 June 2024

But some election experts believe there will be efforts to replicate Delta County's refusal to certify. —Madeleine May, CBS News, 20 May 2024

Guerilla tactics Gallant's refusal to contemplate any form of permanent military government reflects the costs of an operation that could stretch Israel's military and the economy, reviving memories of Israel's years-long occupation of southern Lebanon after a costly 1982 war. —James MacKenzie, USA TODAY, 17 May 2024

Popular on Variety Under the terms of the partnership, Lyrical will have the first right of refusal to produce and finance RPC films, which are genre agnostic and carry budgets of $10 million and up, over two years with an option to extend to a third year. —Brent Lang, Variety, 16 May 2024

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing refusal

• (the right of) first refusal

Kids Definition

refusal

noun

re·​fus·​al ri-ˈfyü-zəl 

1

: the act of refusing or denying

2

: the opportunity or right of refusing or taking (as a purchase) before others