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deny
/dɪˈnaɪ/
refuse to admit the truth or existence of something
She denied ever meeting him before the trial.
She refused to admit that she had met him before the trial.
general
To refuse to admit the truth or existence of something, especially when challenged or questioned.
The company denied any wrongdoing in the scandal.
The company refused to admit any wrongdoing in the scandal.
He denied stealing the money, despite the evidence.
He refused to admit that he stole the money, even though there was evidence.
Often used in legal or formal contexts to indicate refusal to acknowledge facts.
general
To refuse to grant or provide something requested or desired.
The bank denied his loan application.
The bank refused to approve his loan application.
The government denied visas to several applicants.
The government refused to grant visas to several applicants.
Common in bureaucratic or administrative contexts.
Collocations
deny accessto refuse someone permission to enter or use somethingdeny responsibilityto refuse to accept blame or accountabilitydeny the allegationsto refuse to admit that the accusations are true
Antonyms
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Formal vs. Informal Use
In formal or legal contexts, 'deny' often carries a stronger implication of refusal than in casual speech.
Gold Rule
Legal Context
In legal settings, 'deny' is often used to formally reject accusations or claims.
Word Origin
From Middle English 'denyen', from Old French 'denier', from Latin 'denegare' (to refuse), from 'de-' (away) + 'negare' (to say no).
Usage Notes
In formal or legal contexts, 'deny' often implies a deliberate refusal to acknowledge facts, even when evidence exists. In everyday use, it can also mean refusing to provide something requested.
Word Breakdown
de-
away, off
prefix-neg-
to say no
root-y
action or state
suffixEnglish Dictionary