refuse
verb (used with object)
to decline to accept (something offered).
had refused
-
past perfectof refuse.past perfect
Used to express a completed action that took place before another specific past action occurred.
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.
Mexico's leftist President Claudia Sheinbaum said Thursday that Colombia had refused entry to Mexican rescuers over an alleged lack of correct certification.
From Barron's ● Aug. 14, 2026
She told him to call 911, but he didn’t know how and had refused medical-alert systems.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 4, 2026
He said that a dispute had arisen after the two arrested men had demanded transportation money from those in the car, which they had refused to pay.
From BBC ● Jun. 2, 2026
The US had refused to release "even 25 percent" of Iran's assets frozen abroad or pay any reparations for war damage, Fars added.
From Barron's ● May 19, 2026
When my mother and grandmother told the story of our births, it was mostly of how Caroline had refused to breathe.
From "Jacob Have I Loved" by Katherine Paterson
