Definitions and Examples of withhold, withdraw, refuse
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
To refuse to give or grant something that is due or expected.
Example
The company decided to withhold bonuses this year due to financial constraints.
To remove or take away something that has been offered or given.
Example
The candidate decided to withdraw his application after learning more about the job responsibilities.
To decline to accept or give something; to say no to an offer or request.
Example
She had to refuse the invitation to the party because she had a prior commitment.
Key Differences: withhold vs withdraw vs refuse
- 1Withhold implies holding back something that is due or expected.
- 2Withdraw implies taking back something that has already been offered or given.
- 3Refuse implies declining to accept or give something.
Effective Usage of withhold, withdraw, refuse
- 1Negotiations: Use these antonyms in business negotiations to discuss terms and conditions.
- 2Job Applications: Use these antonyms to describe actions related to job applications such as withdrawing an application or refusing an offer.
- 3Everyday Conversations: Use these antonyms in everyday conversations to express the opposite of offering something.
Remember this!
The antonyms of offer are withhold, withdraw, and refuse. Each antonym conveys a different meaning: withhold implies holding back something that is due or expected, withdraw implies taking back something that has already been offered or given, and refuse implies declining to accept or give something. These antonyms can be used in various contexts such as negotiations, job applications, and everyday conversations.
