renege on

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.

"My kids are only excited because, apparently, I promised if I go to space, they get a dog. I can't renege on it now," he said.

From BBC • Jun. 2, 2026

To reach a compromise with member states, parliament is under pressure to renege on several amendments it added to the text in March which the Americans consider unacceptable.

From Barron's • May 19, 2026

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

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

From The Wall Street Journal • Oct. 30, 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