reject - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
reject Word Meanings
- to refuse to accept, believe, or consider something
- to dismiss an idea or proposal
- to turn down a submission or application
reject Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
reject Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/rɪˈdʒɛkt/
US
/rɪˈdʒɛkt/
reject Word Etymology
Root decomposition: re- = back, ject = throw. Historical origin: Latin 'reicere' → Old French 'rejetter' → English. Memory image: Picture someone throwing something back, symbolizing denial or refusal.
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 InputEnglish Brain Route
First I shift my shoulders, move my hands, and set a boundary in my thoughts. A request lands, I pause and pull the attention away, then push back with a calm no. The effort is soft but clear, like turning a dial until the signal changes. That sense of choice sticks with me the next time a proposal comes, and I keep my response ready.
Real Context
Reject is a versatile verb meaning to refuse to accept or consider something; to dismiss an idea or proposal; and to turn down a submission or application. In everyday speech you might say you rejected the offer, that the proposal was rejected by the committee, or that a manuscript was rejected from the contest. The tone ranges from neutral to firm, depending on context. Its noun form rejection refers to the act or result of being refused. Related forms include rejected, rejecting, and rejection. The etymology links back to Latin reicere, through Old French rejetter, with the core image of throwing back or casting aside as a denial.
Usage Reminders
- Be precise about what is being rejected (an offer vs a proposal vs a plan). Avoid using reject for people; use refuse or turn down when denying a person’s request. Use be rejected in passive voice to describe outcomes. Distinguish reject from decline in formal or small-talk contexts. Remember the noun rejection for the state, not the act alone. Watch for phrasal relatives like reject out of hand or rejected manuscript.
Common Misconceptions
- Thinking reject means merely not liking something rather than evaluating it
- Confusing reject with refuse or decline in all contexts
- Assuming rejection always hurts feelings or is personal
- Using reject for people (e. g., a rejected person) instead of 'refuse' or 'deny'
- Forgetting the noun 'rejection' refers to the act or result, not a person
Thinking Differences
For English learners, reject often signals a formal evaluation outcome and pairs with 'rejection' as a noun. Learners may overuse 'reject' for people or feel it too harsh; focus on context: offer/proposal vs. a person. Note collocations like 'reject out of hand' or 'be rejected'.
Learning Tips
- Learn the core verb forms: reject, rejected, rejecting
- Pair with objects like offer, proposal, idea, application
- Use 'be rejected' for outcomes, not personal feelings
- Differentiate from refuse (personal denial) and decline (polite or formal)
- Notice collocations: reject out of hand, reject a claim
- Remember the noun rejection as a state, not a person
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the best definition of 'reject'?
A.To refuse to accept, believe, or agree with something
B.To accept willingly and with pleasure
C.To carefully examine or study something in detail
D.To fix or restore something that is broken
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses the word 'reject' correctly?
A.She reject the gift happily at the party.
B.The committee decided to reject the application because it was incomplete.
C.They will reject at the restaurant tonight.
D.He rejectfully praised the performance.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar in meaning to 'reject'?
A.accept
B.refuse
C.embrace
D.consider
Step 4: Opposite Words
Which word is the opposite of 'reject'?
A.accept
B.refuse
C.ignore
D.discard
Step 5: Mastery
Which real-life scenario is one where you would properly use the word 'reject'?
A.A hiring manager turns down a candidate after the interview because they lack required experience.
B.Someone happily accepts an invitation and attends the party with excitement.
C.A mechanic fixes a car's engine and returns it to the owner in working order.
D.A teacher praises a student's excellent homework and posts it on the board.
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