Meaning & use

denial

noun·Academic

The act of stating that something is not true, or the refusal to admit or accept a fact.

See it in a sentence

His flat denial of the accusation surprised no one who knew him.

She lived in denial about her illness for years before seeking treatment.

A note on using this word

The phrase 'in denial' describes refusing to accept an emotionally difficult truth, a psychological use distinct from simply denying a statement.

Words with a similar meaning

rejectionrefusal

Choose a synonym to suit the sentence. Meanings can overlap without being identical.

Words with an opposite meaning

admissionconfession

Make it your own

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