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Rebuff: meaning and sentence examples
rebuff means to reject or refuse someone or something sharply. Watch the story, then try free practice below.
Read the story
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Ignoring is not rebuffing.
No. I'm not joining.
The difference is clear.
Rebuff: reject or refuse sharply.
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Explore the word · verb
What does rebuff mean?
to reject or refuse someone or something sharply.
How the story shows the meaning
Ignoring the invitation does not communicate a clear refusal. The later “No. I’m not joining” directly rejects it in a sharp manner. The word describes that response; it is not a recommendation to be unkind.
rebuff in a sentence
- The character rebuffed the invitation with a sharp “Absolutely not.”
- Her offer to help was rebuffed, so she stopped asking.
- The team received a rebuff when its request was abruptly rejected.
Rebuff can also be a noun meaning a sharp refusal. Not every “no” is a rebuff: context and manner distinguish a firm but courteous refusal from a sharp rejection.
Check your understanding
Read the answer and explanation
“No! Stop asking me!” spoken sharply. Correct. The speaker directly and sharply rejects the request.
Try two more questions
Explain your thinking, then open a sample answer. These are extra practice examples to use after watching.
1. Why is ignoring an invitation different from rebuffing it?
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Ignoring does not necessarily communicate a refusal. Rebuffing involves rejecting or refusing, often abruptly or sharply.
2. Rewrite the sharp refusal as a clear but considerate response.
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One possible answer is “Thanks for inviting me, but I’m not interested in joining.” A refusal can be clear without being harsh.
Companion lesson by Parrivo · Updated