Definitions

refusal

[ri-fyoo-zuhl] / rɪˈfyu zəl /

NOUN

denial of responsibility; unwillingness

Synonyms

STRONGEST

ban defiance exclusion noncompliance rejection reversal veto

STRONG

abnegation choice declension declination disapproval disavowal disclaimer disfavor dissent enjoinment forbidding interdiction negation nix no nonacceptance option pass prohibition proscription rebuff refutation regrets renouncement renunciation repudiation repulse repulsion turndown withholding writ

WEAK

cold shoulder disallowance discountenancing knockback nonconsent thumbs-down

Antonyms

STRONGEST

acceptance allowance approval permission ratification sanction

STRONG

agreement attraction confirmation endorsement

WEAK

OK grant offer

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.

The US delegation in Islamabad -- led by Vance, special envoy Steve Witkoff and Trump's son-in-law Jared Kushner -- was frustrated by Iran's refusal to give up what it insists is a civilian nuclear programme.

From Barron's • Apr. 13, 2026

Among the top concerns is Iran’s refusal to fully open the Strait of Hormuz.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 9, 2026

And it seems to be a continuation of previous posts about the Iran War and the Iranian refusal to comply with his orders to them.

From Salon • Apr. 5, 2026

But the head coach's absolute belief in his methods occasionally strayed into dogma, and his apparent refusal to adapt - or incorporate just a little more pragmatism - proved costly.

From BBC • Mar. 27, 2026

Hesterfowl’s refusal to answer seemed to indicate that Clare was onto something.

From "The Undead Fox of Deadwood Forest" by Aubrey Hartman

Vocabulary lists containing refusal

"The First Day of School," Vocabulary from the short story

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!

Catching Fire

Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!

poems about parents

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!