say no

VERB

forbid

Synonyms

STRONGEST

ban block cancel censor deny deprive disallow enjoin exclude freeze halt hinder impede inhibit oppose preclude prevent proscribe restrain restrict rule out stop

STRONG

check debar embargo forestall forfend interdict nix obstruct obviate spike stymie taboo veto withhold

WEAK

declare illegal hold up lock up put the chill on shut down shut out

Antonyms

STRONGEST

add admit advance aid allow approve assist continue encourage facilitate forward free go help include let go permit push release support welcome

WEAK

authorize sanction

VERB

protest

Synonyms

STRONGEST

affirm assert declare demonstrate fight insist maintain object oppose resist revolt

STRONG

asseverate attest avouch avow blast buck combat contend demur disagree except expostulate holler howl kick predicate profess rebel remonstrate squawk testify

WEAK

back-talk be against be displeased by constate cry out inveigh against make a stink put up a fight sound off stage a walkout take exception thumbs-down

Antonyms

STRONGEST

agree comply deny forget go along support

STRONG

accept compliment consent give in praise retreat surrender

WEAK

approve

VERB

turn down

Synonyms

STRONGEST

dismiss rebuff refuse spurn

WEAK

decline disapprove reprobate repudiate scorn throw out

Antonyms

STRONGEST

accept welcome

WEAK

OK take

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.

"There are obviously funding difficulties in the NHS, but I think this is just an easy one to say no to," she adds.

From BBC • May 22, 2026

They can respond and say no, or they can just not respond, which apparently is very common.

From Slate • May 19, 2026

The producer said, “Hey, if you say no, we’re never asking you again.”

From Los Angeles Times • May 19, 2026

“This was what was so hard to say no to—the pure acceptance and love from setting foot onstage in front of these people.”

From The Wall Street Journal • May 15, 2026

“Want to see my surprise?” he asked, like he thought I might say no.

From "Unusual Chickens for the Exceptional Poultry Farmer" by Kelly Jones

say no

Example Sentences

Related Words