rehusar
“rehusar” means “to refuse” in Spanish (general rejection of an offer or action).
to refuse, to decline
Also: to reject
📝 In Action
Ella rehusó la invitación porque tenía mucho trabajo.
A2She declined the invitation because she had a lot of work.
El testigo rehusó contestar a las preguntas del abogado.
B1The witness refused to answer the lawyer's questions.
No puedes rehusar una oferta tan generosa.
B2You cannot refuse such a generous offer.
Subjunctive
Imperfect Subjunctive
Present Subjunctive
Indicative
Preterite
Imperfect
Present
Translate to Spanish
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: rehusar
Question 1 of 3
Which word means 'to reuse' a product, not 'to refuse' an offer?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Latin word 'refusare,' which meant to pour back or give back. It is related to the English word 'refuse'.
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
💡 Master Spanish
Take your Spanish to the next level. Read 200+ illustrated and narrated Spanish stories tailored to your level with the Inklingo app!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'rehusar' and 'rechazar'?
'Rehusar' is slightly softer and often used for invitations or requests. 'Rechazar' is much stronger and can feel like a flat-out rejection or pushing something away.
Is 'rehusar' a regular verb?
Yes, it follows the standard -ar verb rules, but it adds an accent mark over the 'u' (rehúso, rehúsas) in some forms to make sure the pronunciation stays correct.
Does it need the word 'a' before another verb?
No. Unlike 'empezar a' or 'ayudar a', 'rehusar' is followed immediately by the next verb: 'Rehusó participar' (He refused to participate).