Definitions

first refusal

NOUN

first chance to buy something

Synonyms

WEAK

first option option preemption prior right of purchase refusal right of preemption

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Mason said CBS News will have right of first refusal on any interviews he books and is helping to promote the launch of “Alchemy.”

From Los Angeles Times • May 1, 2026

SpaceX, like many other private firms, typically holds the right of first refusal.

From MarketWatch • Feb. 18, 2026

On top of its initial lease, AMD holds an option for an additional 75 megawatts of capacity and a right of first refusal for another 100 megawatts.

From Barron's • Jan. 16, 2026

“They offered no advance. The clause that I really should have taken out was the right of first refusal, which boxed me in,” she explained.

From Slate • Nov. 3, 2025

Her first refusal touched the slaves on the ship Enterprise, which had put in at Port Hamilton in 1835.

From History of the United States, Volume 3 by Andrews, Elisha Benjamin