demur - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
demur Word Meanings
- to raise doubts or objections
- to hesitate or delay an action
- to express reluctance
demur Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
demur Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/dɪˈmɜːr/
US
/dɪˈmɜr/
demur Word Etymology
Root decomposition: de- (from) + mur (to delay). Historical origin: Late Latin 'demorari' → Old French 'demourer' → English. Memory image: Picture a person hesitating at a door when asked to enter, illustrating reluctance and delay.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Demur is a somewhat formal verb meaning to raise doubts or objections, or to hesitate before taking action. It sits between simply hesitating and flatly refusing, implying that someone is considering consequences, rules, or principles before proceeding. In modern usage, you might demur at an invitation or a proposal, especially in professional contexts, while someone can also demur to a decision, meaning they do not fully accept it yet. The verb often appears with prepositions such as at or to: demur at something, or demur to doing something, though the latter is rarer today. In writing, demur can carry a slight antiquated tone.
Usage Reminders
- Demur is formal; use it in professional or literary contexts only
- Work with prepositions at or to when needed
- Do not confuse demur with refuse or merely hesitate
- Prefer demur at a proposal or invitation rather than a casual situation
- Keep it tone-appropriate; avoid in everyday casual chat
- Practice with short, clear examples to show reasoning
Common Misconceptions
- Demur means refuse outright, which it does not
- It is only used in legal contexts
- It always takes the preposition to
- It means just to delay action without objection
- It is interchangeable with hesitate in all situations
Thinking Differences
In English, demur signals a formal, reasoned objection; other languages may express the idea with verbs meaning 'to hesitate' or 'to object' plus different prepositions. Learners often translate demur too literally as simple hesitation or as a flat refusal, and may default to the wrong preposition.
Learning Tips
- Treat demur as a formal option for objections, not a general hesitation
- Remember at is common when expressing objection to a proposal
- Compare with refuse and hesitate to see precise nuance
- Use it in writing to convey measured, reasoned concern
- Practice with both at and to to feel the subtle differences
- Read formal texts to hear authentic usage
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does the word 'demur' mean?
A.To raise objections
B.To argue back
C.To agree wholeheartedly
D.To celebrate something
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses 'demur' correctly?
A.I will demur to the latest fashion trends.
B.He decided to demur when asked to speak.
C.They demur at the thought of traveling during the pandemic.
D.She demurred the chocolate cake offered to her.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'demur'?
A.Agree
B.Complain
C.Refuse
D.Applaud
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'demur'?
A.Resist
B.Accept
C.Doubt
D.Disagree
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context where someone might demur?
A.A group of friends might decide to go out for dinner.
B.Someone might cheer for their favorite team during a match.
C.A person might refuse to sign a contract with unfavorable terms.
D.An employee might enthusiastically agree to a new project.
Related Listening
🌱 Lite (Beginner)
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