refusal

/rɪˈfjuːzəl/
nounIntermediate
formal

The act of saying no or denying a request, offer, or demand.

His refusal to sign the contract delayed the project.

His refusal to sign the contract delayed the project.

The doctor's refusal to prescribe the medication was based on safety concerns.

The doctor's refusal to prescribe the medication was based on safety concerns.

💡

The word 'refusal' is often used in formal or professional contexts, such as legal, medical, or business settings.

Collocations

refusal to cooperateThe act of not cooperating with someone or something.refusal to complyThe act of not following rules, orders, or requests.refusal to acceptThe act of not accepting something that is offered or given.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Related Phrases

refuse to do somethingphrase
To say no to doing something.
refusal to answerphrase
The act of not answering a question or request.

💡Pro Tip

Formal vs. Informal Usage

'Refusal' is often used in formal contexts, such as legal or business settings. In everyday language, you might use 'refuse' or 'deny' instead.

Gold Rule

Correct Usage

Use 'refusal' to describe the act of saying no or denying a request, offer, or demand. It is often used in formal contexts.

📖Word Origin

From Middle English 'refusale,' from Old French 'refuser,' meaning 'to refuse.'

📝Usage Notes

The word 'refusal' is often used in formal contexts, such as legal, medical, or business settings. It can also be used in everyday language to describe the act of saying no to a request or offer.

Word Breakdown

re-
Again, back
prefix
+
-fuse
To pour, pour out
root
+
-al
Related to, pertaining to
suffix
English Dictionary