What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
repulse
Example
The smell of rotten eggs repulsed me. [repulsed: verb]
Example
The graphic images in the horror movie repulsed the audience. [repulsed: past participle]
Example
The army was able to repulse the enemy's attack. [repulse: verb]
refuse
Example
I had to refuse the invitation because I had other plans. [refuse: verb]
Example
The refuse bin was overflowing with trash. [refuse: noun]
Example
He refused to apologize for his mistake. [refused: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Refuse is more commonly used than repulse in everyday language. Refuse is a common word that covers a wide range of contexts, while repulse is less common and has a more specific meaning.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between repulse and refuse?
Both repulse and refuse can be used in formal and informal contexts. However, repulse may be more formal due to its less common usage and specific meaning, while refuse is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
