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rebuff

noun

/rɪˈbʌf/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of rebuff

A sharp or blunt rejection or refusal, typically in response to an offer, request or advance.
"He received a sharp rebuff when he asked for a raise."

Detailed meaning of rebuff

It can also refer to a dismissal or rejection of an idea or proposal.

The term is often used to describe a type of response or action, and can have a negative connotation. For example, "he received a rebuff when he asked for a promotion" or "she gave a rebuff to the investors when they proposed a new idea".

The word "rebuff" comes from the French word "rebuffade" meaning "a repulse" or "a blow", and it implies a firm and often abrupt rejection.

It is important to note that being rebuffed can be hurtful and discouraging, but it is also a part of life and it's important to learn from it and move on. Rebuff can also be a way of setting boundaries, protecting oneself or one's interests.

Example sentences containing rebuff

1. She received a cold rebuff to her job application.
2. His attempt at conversation met with a polite rebuff.
3. The rejection felt like a painful emotional rebuff.
4. He faced a rebuff when he asked for a loan.
5. The team's proposal met with a surprising rebuff.
6. She delivered a firm rebuff to his romantic advances.

History and etymology of rebuff

The noun 'rebuff' has its origins in Old French, where it was known as 'rebouche,' meaning 'a plug' or 'a stopper.' This term is formed from the prefix 're-,' signifying 'back' or 'again,' and 'bouche,' which means 'mouth' or 'opening.' Over time, the sense of blocking or stopping was extended to mean a sharp or blunt rejection or refusal, much like forcefully closing the door on someone's advance or request. The etymology of 'rebuff' underscores the idea of abruptly halting or blocking something, in this case, a person's efforts or overtures, often with a sense of bluntness or firmness in the rejection.

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Further usage examples of rebuff

1. His suggestion was met with a harsh rebuff from the group.
2. The client's response was a clear rebuff to our offer.
3. They were disappointed by the rebuff of their partnership idea.
4. The athlete took the coach's rebuff as a challenge to improve.
5. His attempt to reconcile ended in a bitter rebuff.
6. The rebuff from investors didn't deter their entrepreneurial spirit.
7. She couldn't hide her disappointment after the rebuff.
8. The project faced a major setback with that unexpected rebuff.
9. Despite the rebuff, he remained persistent in his pursuit.
10. The rebuff was a valuable lesson in resilience.
11. They shrugged off the rebuff and continued their work.
12. The rebuff was a reality check for their expectations.
13. A polite rebuff can be better than false promises.
14. The rebuff only fueled his determination to succeed.
15. The company received a strong rebuff from the government when they submitted their proposal.
16. He gave a decisive rebuff to the opponent's argument in the debate.
17. She received a cold rebuff from the editor when she submitted her manuscript.
18. The group received a harsh rebuff from the community when they proposed the new development.
19. He gave a curt rebuff to the salesperson who tried to sell him the product.
20. She received a blunt rebuff from the teacher when she asked for extra help.
21. The politicians received a strong rebuff from the public when they proposed the new tax.
22. He gave a sharp rebuff to the critic who gave his work a negative review.
23. She received a harsh rebuff from her boss when she asked for a promotion.
24. She gave a polite rebuff when he asked her out on a date.
25. The company received a strong rebuff from the union when they proposed the new contract.