refuse
verb (used with object)
to decline to accept (something offered).
have been refusing
-
present perfect progressiveof refuse.present perfect progressive
Used to describe an action that began in the past, has continued continuously, and is still in progress.
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.
Voice actors connected to the SAG-Aftra union have been refusing to work with companies like Activision, Disney, Warner Bros and EA since July over issues such as the use of generative artificial intelligence.
From BBC ● May 20, 2025
The advocacy group Consumer Watchdog has said many grocery stores have been refusing to take back empties in-store as required.
From Seattle Times ● Aug. 31, 2022
Isobel McRae-Morris asks about reports that some Russian soldiers have been refusing to fight in Ukraine, with some conscripts deserting their positions.
From BBC ● Jun. 1, 2022
Overloaded shipping companies have been refusing to send their steel boxes to the Midwest to pick up agricultural products, instead preferring to ship them back to Asia to carry more lucrative cargo.
From New York Times ● Feb. 3, 2022
"I know you have been refusing to hear for the last two years."
From London Pride Or When the World Was Younger by M. E. (Mary Elizabeth) Braddon
