deny

[dɪˈnaɪ]

deny Definition

  • 1refuse to admit the truth or existence of something
  • 2refuse to give (something) to someone
  • 3refuse entry or access to (someone)
  • 4state that one refuses to admit the truth or existence of (something)
  • 5withhold or refuse to grant (something requested or desired) to (someone)

Using deny: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "deny" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    He denied any involvement in the crime.

  • Example

    The company denied her request for a refund.

  • Example

    The bouncer denied them entry to the club.

  • Example

    She denied the allegations against her.

  • Example

    The government denied the opposition's request for a public inquiry.

deny Synonyms and Antonyms

Idioms Using deny

  • unwilling or unable to accept something as true

    Example

    Despite all the evidence, he remained in denial about his addiction.

  • refuse to give someone what they deserve or have earned

    Example

    The company denied him his due promotion despite his hard work and dedication.

  • refuse to acknowledge or accept something that is clearly true or evident

    Example

    She denied the obvious fact that her son was struggling in school.

Phrases with deny

  • refrain from indulging in something, typically a pleasure or comfort

    Example

    She denied herself the pleasure of dessert in order to lose weight.

  • refuse entry or admission to a place or building

    Example

    The security guard denied access to anyone without proper identification.

  • state that one did not commit the crime or offense with which one is charged

    Example

    He denied the charges of embezzlement and fraud.

Origins of deny

from Old French 'denier', from Latin 'denegare', from 'de-' (expressing reversal) + 'negare' (to deny)

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Summary: deny in Brief

To 'deny' [dɪˈnaɪ] is to refuse to admit the truth or existence of something, withhold or refuse to grant something requested or desired, or refuse entry or access to someone. It can also mean to state that one refuses to admit the truth or existence of something. Examples include 'He denied any involvement in the crime,' and 'The company denied her request for a refund.' 'Deny' extends into phrases like 'deny oneself,' and idioms like 'in denial,' denoting an unwillingness to accept something as true.

How do native speakers use this expression?