refuse
verb (used with object)
to decline to accept (something offered).
refusing
-
present participleof refuse.present participle
A verb form that is used in progressive verb constructions and may also function as a modifier or a gerund.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
She knows the central irony of her situation: Just because she and her mother are refusing to sell their land doesn’t mean the data center won’t be built.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 16, 2026
But it admitted its audit suffered from limitations, such as the executive in charge of planning the campaign refusing to surrender their mobile phone.
From Barron's ● Aug. 5, 2026
Bass stood in front of a display that accused Lineage of refusing to provide sufficient support to help nearby residents relocate to other parts of the city.
From Los Angeles Times ● Jul. 31, 2026
He was transferred to Mulago National Referral Hospital, Uganda's largest public hospital, but was refusing treatment from government medical personnel.
From BBC ● Jul. 30, 2026
He’s refusing to hear what she’s not saying.
From "A Heart in a Body in the World" by Deb Caletti
