renege

[ri-nig, -neg, -neeg] / rɪˈnɪg, -ˈnɛg, -ˈnig /

VERB

go back on one's word

Synonyms

STRONGEST

back out default on go back go back on one's word pull out retract reverse

STRONG

change one's mind have change of heart take back

WEAK

break faith break one's promise break one's word chicken out cop out get cold feet weasel out wimp out

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.

After a pre-premiere bidding war results in a $75-million sale, “Medellin” debuts to a round of boos, leading shady businessman Yair Marx to renege on the deal.

From Los Angeles Times • May 11, 2026

One said that it was wrong to "renege on promises" by making people who "uprooted their lives to come here" to wait longer for permanent residency.

From BBC • Mar. 19, 2026

But regulators say some companies renege on their commitments.

From Barron's • Jan. 29, 2026

Now she can renege on a promise to air a revised version on CBS.

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 26, 2025

She’d thought that, at the last minute, Papa would have second thoughts and renege on the deposit.

From "When Dimple Met Rishi" by Sandhya Menon

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