Japanese Conversation · Level 116
60 words
Japanese word
拒絶
Pronunciation
Romajikyozetsu
Meaning
- nounrefusal
Example
彼女の拒絶は、私を驚かせました。kano jo no kyo zetsu wa watashi o odoro ka se ma shi ta
Her refusal surprised me.
More examples
彼の拒絶には、明確な理由がありました。kare no kyo zetsu ni wa mei kaku na ri yū ga a ri ma shi ta
There was a clear reason for his refusal.
Core concept
It marks a clear boundary by turning away something that has been offered, requested, or directed at someone.
Common phrases
拒絶反応kyo zetsu han nō
rejection reaction
拒絶を受けるkyo zetsu o u ke ru
receive a rejection
拒絶の意思kyo zetsu no i shi
intention to refuse
Similar words
拒否kyohi: A refusal to accept, approve, or comply with something.
断りkotowari: A polite or ordinary refusal of an invitation, request, or offer.
辞退jitai: A decision to decline an offer, position, or benefit.
Definition in Japanese
相手からの働きかけや申し出を受け入れないこと。ai te ka ra no hatara ki ka ke ya mō shi de o u ke i re na i ko to
Word origin
拒絶 (kyozetsu) combines 拒 (kyo, "refuse") with 絶 (zetsu, "cut off"), linking refusal with the idea of cutting off contact or acceptance.
Usage tips
- The word 拒絶 (kyozetsu) sounds more formal and forceful than a simple conversational "no," so it often appears when a strong refusal matters.