Basic Details
Word: Rebuff
Part of Speech: Verb
Meaning: To reject someone or something in a blunt or abrupt manner.
Synonyms: Reject, refuse, turn down
Antonyms: Accept, embrace, welcome
Idioms and Phrases
- Rebuff someone’s advances: To strongly reject someone's attempts to initiate a romantic or friendly relationship. Example: "She had to rebuff his advances kindly, as she only saw him as a friend."
- Get a rebuff: To receive a sharp refusal or rejection. Example: "After he asked for help, he got a rebuff that made him rethink his approach."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The coach had to rebuff the player’s request to skip practice, as discipline was crucial for the team.
Example 2: When she offered her opinion, he rebuffed her comments without considering her point of view.
Example 3: His proposal was met with a swift rebuff, leading him to re-evaluate his ideas.
Fun Fact
The word "rebuff" comes from the Old French "rebouffer," which meant "to blow back." This reflects the idea of being pushed away or rejected in a forceful way.
Famous Quote
"Every increase of knowledge is an increase of rebuff." – Mary McCarthy
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "rebuff" mean?
a) To accept something warmly
b) To reject someone or something bluntly
c) To encourage someone
d) To assist someone
Answer: b) To reject someone or something bluntly
2. Which of these is a synonym of "rebuff"?
a) Accept
b) Refuse
c) Welcome
d) Embrace
Answer: b) Refuse
3. Which sentence uses "rebuff" correctly?
a) She decided to rebuff the delicious cake.
b) He rebuffed her invitation to the party firmly.
c) The cat rebuffed the warm blanket.
d) They were happy to rebuff the new idea.
Answer: b) He rebuffed her invitation to the party firmly.
4. Which idiom means to reject someone's attempts?
a) Get a rebuff
b) Put all your eggs in one basket
c) Beat around the bush
d) A blessing in disguise
Answer: a) Get a rebuff
5. What is the opposite of "rebuff"?
a) Reject
b) Embrace
c) Turn down
d) Refuse
Answer: b) Embrace
