What is refuse? Pronunciation and usage in English

refuse means . Learn how to pronounce and use refuse through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of refuse

refuseverb

/rɪˈfjuːz/
Definition & pronunciation of refuse

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "refuse" in English. Here's a breakdown and a few tips:

Most Common Pronunciation (American English):

  • ˈrɛfjuːs (rhymes with "refuse to use")

    • ˈrɛf: This part sounds like "ref" as in "refresh." The "e" is a short, open "e" sound.
    • juːs: This sounds like the vowel in "juice." It's a long "u" sound.

British English Pronunciation:

  • ˈrəfjuːs (rhymes with "refuse to use")

    • ˈrəf: The "r" is often very subtle, almost silent, in British English. The "a" is a short "a" sound, like in "cat."
    • juːs: Same as American English - the long "u" sound.

Here's a breakdown of the sounds, focusing on the vowel:

  • The "u" sound: This is the trickiest part. It's not like a "oo" as in "moon." It’s a pure "yoo" sound like you're saying "you." Think of how you would pronounce "you" but just focusing on the "yoo" part.

Resources to Help You:

  • Forvo: https://forvo.com/word/refuse/ - This website allows you to hear native speakers pronounce the word.
  • YouTube: Search for "how to pronounce refuse" on YouTube for video demonstrations.

To practice, try saying it along with me:

  1. "Ref...fresh"
  2. "...juice"

Let me know if you’d like me to slow it down further or focus on a specific aspect of the pronunciation!

Usage and examples with the word refuse in English

Let's break down how to use the word "refuse" in English. It has several different meanings and ways to be used grammatically. Here's a comprehensive guide:

1. As a Verb (to decline something):

This is the most common usage. "Refuse" means to reject or decline an offer, request, or invitation.

  • Example 1 (Simple refusal): "I refuse to believe that." (I reject the idea.)
  • Example 2 (Declining an invitation): "She refused to come to the party." (She declined the invitation.)
  • Example 3 (Rejecting a request): “He refused to help me with the project.” (He declined my request.)
  • Example 4 (Polite refusal): “I’m afraid I refuse your offer, thank you.” (A more formal way of saying no.)
  • Example 5 (Firm refusal): “Don't ask me again – I refuse to discuss it.” (A strong and direct ‘no’.)

2. As a Noun (something rejected):

"Refuse" can also refer to the material that is rejected – garbage, waste, or leftovers.

  • Example 1: “The garbage collectors took the refuse.” (The trash/garbage.)
  • Example 2: “There was a lot of refuse blocking the drain.” (Accumulated trash.)

3. Grammatical Forms:

  • Refuse (base form): Used with “to” for the infinitive (to refuse)
  • Refusing (present participle): Used with “-ing” adjectives or after auxiliary verbs (refusing is rude.)
  • Refused (past tense & past participle): Used after “have,” “has,” or “had” (I have refused his request.)

4. Phrases & Expressions using "Refuse":

  • Refuse to…: This is a very common construction. It means to emphatically reject something or someone.
    • “He refused to answer the questions.”
    • “She refused to give up.”
  • Refuse something/someone: Used to directly state refusal.
    • “I refuse this food – it’s rotten!”
    • “I refuse him entry.”
  • Refuse to admit: To stubbornly deny something.
    • "He refused to admit he was wrong.”
  • Refuse to cooperate: To stubbornly refuse to work with someone.

5. Levels of Formality:

  • Formal: "He politely refused the invitation."
  • Informal: "Nah, I'll just refuse." (This is quite casual and might sound a bit abrupt.)

Tips for Using "Refuse" Effectively:

  • Consider your tone: “Refuse” can sound blunt, so choose your words carefully. Adding phrases like “I’m afraid,” “I’m sorry,” or “with all due respect” can soften the refusal.
  • Be clear: Make sure your listener understands you're saying no.
  • Provide a brief reason (optional): You don’t always need to give a reason, but a short, polite explanation can help. ( “I’m afraid I’m busy tonight.”)

To help me give you even more tailored advice, could you tell me:

  • What context are you thinking about using "refuse" in? (e.g., a specific conversation, writing a story, etc.)
  • Are there any particular sentences you’re struggling with?

Synonyms for the word refuse

Practice with vocabulary refuse

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. The company made it clear they would _______ to negotiate further on the terms of the acquisition.
  2. Despite the persistent inquiries, the CEO has consistently _______ to comment on the ongoing merger.
  3. Due to unforeseen logistical challenges, we decided to _______ the launch event until next quarter.
  4. I had to _______ the invitation to the conference due to a prior engagement that required my presence.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. The manager might _______ the employee's request for an extended leave, citing critical project deadlines. A) accept B) grant C) refuse D) approve

  2. Employees have the right to _______ unsafe working conditions without fear of reprisal. A) object to B) comply with C) tolerate D) refuse to work in

  3. The bank will likely _______ the loan application if the applicant's credit score does not meet their minimum criteria. A) approve B) process C) refuse D) grant

  4. The scientific community ultimately chose to _______ the unproven hypothesis, demanding more empirical evidence. A) accept B) reject C) confirm D) endorse

  5. The witness initially tried to _______ any knowledge of the incident, but later changed their statement. A) confess B) admit C) affirm D) deny

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. Original: She said no to the offer because the terms were unfavorable. Rewrite (using "refuse"):

  2. Original: The government would not give permission for the new building project. Rewrite (using a related word form of "refuse"):

  3. Original: They did not allow me to enter the secure area without proper identification. Rewrite (using a suitable replacement word, not "refuse"):

Answer:

Exercise 1:

  1. refuse
  2. refused
  3. postpone
  4. decline

Exercise 2:

  1. C) refuse
  2. A) object to, D) refuse to work in
  3. C) refuse
  4. B) reject
  5. D) deny

Exercise 3:

  1. She chose to refuse the offer due to unfavorable terms.
  2. The government issued a refusal for the new building project.
  3. They prevented my entry into the secure area without proper identification.

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