What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
deny
Example
He denied any involvement in the crime. [deny: verb]
Example
The company denied the employee's request for time off. [denied: past tense]
Example
She denied the allegations of cheating on the test. [denying: present participle]
disavow
Example
The politician disavowed any connection to the extremist group. [disavowed: past tense]
Example
The company disavowed the actions of its former CEO. [disavow: verb]
Example
He disavowed his previous support for the controversial policy. [disavowing: present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Deny is more commonly used than disavow in everyday language, and is more versatile in its usage. Disavow is less common and is typically used in more formal contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between deny and disavow?
Disavow is more formal than deny, and is typically used in more serious or professional contexts where a clear and precise rejection or disassociation is required. Deny can be used in both formal and informal contexts, but may be seen as less formal due to its more common usage.
