What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
denied
Example
The bouncer denied him entry to the club. [denied: verb]
Example
She was denied the opportunity to study abroad. [denied: past participle]
refuse
Example
He refused to go to the party because he didn't know anyone there. [refused: verb]
Example
I refuse to eat meat because I am a vegetarian. [refuse: present tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Refuse is more commonly used than denied in everyday language. Refuse is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while denied is less common and often associated with formal or legal situations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between denied and refuse?
While denied is typically associated with a formal and serious tone, refuse can be used in both formal and informal contexts, allowing it to be employed in a variety of situations.
