What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
refuse
Example
I'm sorry, but I must refuse your invitation to the party. [refuse: verb]
Example
She refused to eat the broccoli on her plate. [refused: past tense]
Example
The store will refuse any returns without a receipt. [refuse: verb]
reject
Example
The company rejected his job application due to lack of experience. [rejected: past tense]
Example
She rejected the idea of going to the beach in the rain. [reject: verb]
Example
He felt rejected by his friends after they excluded him from the party. [rejected: past participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Refuse is more commonly used than reject in everyday language, especially in polite contexts. Reject is more commonly used in formal writing or when expressing strong disapproval.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between refuse and reject?
Both refuse and reject can be used in formal and informal contexts. However, reject is generally considered more formal and can be used in academic or professional settings.
