reject
/rɪˈdʒɛkt/To refuse to accept or consider something or someone.
She rejected the offer because it was too low.
She refused the offer because it was too low.
The editor rejected the manuscript due to poor quality.
The editor refused to accept the manuscript because it was of poor quality.
Can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
To refuse to believe or accept something as true.
He rejected the idea that climate change is a hoax.
He refused to accept the idea that climate change is a hoax.
Often used in discussions about beliefs or opinions.
To refuse to allow someone to enter a place or join a group.
The club rejected his membership application.
The club refused to allow him to become a member.
Common in contexts involving membership or access.
Collocations
Related Phrases
💡Pro Tip
Formal vs. Informal Use
'Reject' is more formal than 'refuse' or 'decline'. Use it in professional or serious contexts.
⚡Gold Rule
Verb vs. Noun
As a verb, 'reject' means to refuse. As a noun, it refers to something or someone that has been refused or discarded.
📖Word Origin
From Middle English 'rejeten', from Old French 'rejeter', from Latin 're-' (back) + 'jacere' (to throw).
📝Usage Notes
The verb 'reject' is often used in formal contexts, such as business or legal settings, but can also be used in everyday language. The noun form 'reject' refers to something or someone that has been refused or discarded.