(the right of) first refusal
idiom
: the right to have the first choice to buy something on the same terms as offered to someone else
Examples of (the right of) first refusal in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Walter has owned a minority share of the Lakers since 2021 and had a right of first refusal to buy the majority share of the franchise, which probably helped bring us all to this point.
—
Jim Alexander, Oc Register, 18 June 2025
In addition, this is the date when qualifying offers to retain the right of first refusal are due on the contracts of two-way players Dru Smith and Isaiah Stevens.
—Ira Winderman, Sun Sentinel, 3 June 2025
Regarding the answer to solving the problem, Republican Rep. Thomas O’Dea of New Canaan, one of the state’s wealthiest and most expensive communities, said that towns should be allowed the right of first refusal to buy property that could be used for affordable housing.
—Christopher Keating, Hartford Courant, 25 May 2025
California Judge shuts down recycling plant accused of spewing toxins onto L.A. school
March 17, 2025
The school district and city will have the right of first refusal to buy the parcel if the Weisenbergs ever look to sell their land.
—Cerys Davies, Los Angeles Times, 20 May 2025
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Jim Alexander, Oc Register, 18 June 2025
In addition, this is the date when qualifying offers to retain the right of first refusal are due on the contracts of two-way players Dru Smith and Isaiah Stevens.
—Ira Winderman, Sun Sentinel, 3 June 2025
Regarding the answer to solving the problem, Republican Rep. Thomas O’Dea of New Canaan, one of the state’s wealthiest and most expensive communities, said that towns should be allowed the right of first refusal to buy property that could be used for affordable housing.
—Christopher Keating, Hartford Courant, 25 May 2025
California Judge shuts down recycling plant accused of spewing toxins onto L.A. school
March 17, 2025
The school district and city will have the right of first refusal to buy the parcel if the Weisenbergs ever look to sell their land.
—Cerys Davies, Los Angeles Times, 20 May 2025
See All Example Sentences for (the right of) first refusal
Cite this Entry
“(the right of) first refusal.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/%28the%20right%20of%29%20first%20refusal. Accessed 2 Jul. 2025.
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