Synonyms of refusal

refusal

noun

ri-ˈfyü-zəl 

as in rejection

an unwillingness to grant something asked for

his flat refusal of our reasonable request was rather startling

Synonyms & Similar Words

• rejection
• denial
• nonacceptance
• no
• declination
• nay
• disallowance
• rebuff
• injunction
• veto
• turndown
• repudiation
• repulse
• suppression
• spurn
• ban
• repression
• discouragement
• deterrence
• negative

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• approval
• grant
• allowance
• consent
• agreement
• permission
• acceptance
• sanction
• license
• authorization
• assent
• leave
• clearance
• accession
• acquiescence
• concurrence
• OK
• signature
• seal
• stamp
• sufferance
• imprimatur

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of refusal

Together the groups protested Austin FC’s refusal to take a stance against the Immigration and Customs Enforcement raids terrorizing the city’s sizable immigrant community. — Carlos De Loera, Los Angeles Times, 16 Oct. 2026

The character is written to be very likable and worthy of respect, and Jodie Whittaker brings a really effective extra oomph of warmth and humor to her performance that makes her consistent refusals to accept Kate’s proposals even more striking. — Sophie Brookover, Vulture, 16 Oct. 2026

Melnikova won the European all-around title in August in Croatia after being issued a visa following an initial refusal, the Russian team said at the time. — ABC News, 15 Oct. 2026

Vaccine refusal doesn’t always sound like vaccine refusal in my pediatric office anymore. — CNN Money, 15 Oct. 2026