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

After Russia's refusal to pay the award, Naftogaz has been petitioning national courts seeking court orders to seize Russian commercial assets. — ABC News, 3 Sep. 2026

Dickies Arena, with its luxury suites and modern amenities, now has the right of first refusal for concerts and sporting events. — Matthew Adams, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 3 Sep. 2026

Maduro’s lawyers argue that Washington’s refusal to recognize the legitimacy of his government does not resolve the immunity question. — Antonio María Delgado, Miami Herald, 3 Sep. 2026

The golfer was subsequently charged with two misdemeanors of DUI with property damage and refusal to submit to a lawful test. — Kathleen Perricone, Entertainment Weekly, 2 Sep. 2026