Definition of Rebuff
Quick Meaning of Rebuff
To say no to someone in a sharp or rude way. You reject their offer or advance without being polite about it.
Detailed Definition of Rebuff
To reject, snub, or refuse an offer, proposal, or person in a sudden, abrupt, or harsh manner.
How to Pronounce Rebuff
Stress pattern: oO (2-syllable word).
Tip: Stress the second syllable: rih-BUF. The 'ff' sounds like a single 'f', and the first syllable is short and unstressed.
Watch out: Some learners say 'REbuff' (stress first syllable). Correct: rih-BUF (second syllable stressed). Double 'ff' sounds like single 'f'.
Origin and Etymology of Rebuff
From Old French 'rebuffer' (to push back). 'Re-' means 'back' + 'buffe' means 'blow or buffet'. Originally referred to physical pushing back. Entered English in 16th century.
How to Use Rebuff in a Sentence
Each example shows “rebuff” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
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“The diplomat's offer of peace negotiations was rebuffed by the opposition.”
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“After being rebuffed multiple times, he finally stopped asking her out.”
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“The proposal for institutional reform was rebuffed by the conservative faction.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Rebuff
Common Synonyms for Rebuff
Smart Synonyms for Rebuff — When to Use Each
- reject
- More general; does not imply rudeness or harshness
- snub
- Emphasizes the insulting or rude nature
- refuse
- Simpler and more neutral; basic word for saying
Common Collocations with Rebuff
These phrases pair with “rebuff” in everyday English:
- rebuff an offer
- rebuff a proposal
- rebuff advances
- meet with a rebuff
- rebuff someone's attempt
Common Mistakes When Using Rebuff
Even fluent speakers slip up with “rebuff”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: She rebuffed to his proposal.
- ✓ Correct: She rebuffed his proposal.
- Why: 'Rebuff' is a transitive verb taking a direct object, not a prepositional phrase with 'to'.
- ✗ Wrong: The offer was rebuff.
- ✓ Correct: The offer was rebuffed.
- Why: Past participle is 'rebuffed' (with 'ed'), not 'rebuff'.
- ✗ Wrong: He rebuffed with the new colleague.
- ✓ Correct: He rebuffed the new colleague's advances. / He rebuffed them.
- Why: 'Rebuff' is transitive. Don't use 'with' after it. Use a direct object noun or pronoun.
Other Forms of Rebuff
Frequently Asked Questions About Rebuff
What is the meaning of "Rebuff"?
To say no to someone in a sharp or rude way. You reject their offer or advance without being polite about it.
How do you pronounce "Rebuff"?
The IPA is /rɪˈbʌf/. Stress the second syllable: rih-BUF. The 'ff' sounds like a single 'f', and the first syllable is short and unstressed.
What part of speech is "Rebuff"?
"Rebuff" is a verb at C2 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Rebuff"?
Common synonyms include reject, snub, spurn.
How do you use "Rebuff" in a sentence?
For example: "The diplomat's offer of peace negotiations was rebuffed by the opposition."