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.

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

An employer might renege on a job offer; an employee might simply not turn up.

From The Wall Street Journal • Oct. 30, 2025

I’m concerned he may renege on that agreement.

From MarketWatch • Oct. 14, 2025

The government had already informed the foreign press that I was to be set free tomorrow and felt they could not renege on that statement.

From "Long Walk to Freedom" by Nelson Mandela

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