Thesaurus.com
Dictionary.com
Showing results for refusal. Search instead for refuelli.
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.

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

A spokesperson for the Lynch family said they were "disappointed by the court's refusal and believe an application to the Court of Appeal should follow in the interests of justice".

From BBC • Mar. 25, 2026

The regulator gave no explanation for the refusal, saying only that "the full reasons for the decision can be requested from the authority."

From Barron's • Mar. 23, 2026

They did so out of fear that they would face retribution at home for their refusal to sing the Iranian national anthem at a tournament in Australia.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 15, 2026

But his father was watching him with an intensity that allowed no refusal.

From "Wolf Brother" by Michelle Paver

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.