What does refuse mean?
Refuse is a common English verb meaning to say that you are unwilling to accept, do, or agree to something. It is used with requests, orders, proposals, opportunities, and offers: a person may refuse a request, refuse to answer a question, or refuse to approve a plan. The verb can suggest firmness or resistance, especially in the expression 'refuse to comply', although it is also used for ordinary personal choices such as refusing an offer. In the phrase 'refuse to comment', it conveys a deliberate decision not to answer. Although 'refuse' has a noun form with a different pronunciation and meaning, as a verb it is normally pronounced /rɪˈfjuːz/ in both British and American English. The word is related to 'refusal', 'refused', and 'refusing'.
verbTo state that one is unwilling to do, accept, or agree to something. It can also mean to resist or decline an offer, request, order, or proposed action.
- To state that one is unwilling to do something, especially when asked or ordered to do it.
- To decline an offer, request, opportunity, or proposal.
- To resist, withstand, or refuse to accept something.
"She refused to comment on the allegations."
"The committee refused to approve the proposal."
"He refused the offer even though it included a substantial bonus."
One word can sound like two: 'refuse' means to say no, while the same spelling can name what is thrown away.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does refuse come from?
The verb comes through Old French from Latin refundere, formed from the prefix re- and fundere, meaning to pour back. The original sense was to reject or repay, and the modern meaning developed through the idea of turning something away or declining an offer. Its relatives include 'refund' and, through the same Latin root, words such as 'fusion' and 'profound'.
Related word forms
How refuse is actually used
The verb is common in formal and informal contexts. 'Refuse to do something' is the usual construction; 'refuse something' commonly takes an offer, request, or proposal. The related noun 'refusal' is often more formal and can suggest a deliberate or principled decision.
Easily confused with refuse
As a verb, 'refuse' is pronounced /rɪˈfjuːz/ and means to decline or resist; as a noun, it is pronounced /ˈrefjuːs/ and means rubbish or waste.