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How to Say "i refuse" in Spanish

English → Spanish

rechazo

/ray-CHAH-so//reˈtʃaso/

verbA2general
Use 'rechazo' when you are denying permission, rejecting an offer, or refusing something as a matter of principle or personal conviction.
A person politely holding up a hand to decline a tray of cookies being offered to them.

Examples

Yo rechazo cualquier tipo de violencia.

I reject any type of violence.

Si me ofrecen el trabajo, lo rechazo.

If they offer me the job, I'll turn it down.

Spelling Change

When the 'z' in the base word meets an 'e', it changes to a 'c' (like in 'rechacé' or 'rechace'). This keeps the sound consistent.

Confusing Noun and Verb

Mistake: “Saying 'Mi rechazo es...' when you mean 'Yo rechazo...'”

Correction: Use 'rechazo' alone to mean 'I reject'. Use 'El rechazo' with a capital letter or article to mean 'The rejection'.

niego

NYEH-go/ˈnje.ɣo/

verbB1general
Use 'niego' primarily when you are withholding or denying something specific that is being requested or is due, such as access, information, or a right.
A character holding a large, shiny key while standing in front of a heavy, closed wooden door. They are holding out a hand to signal 'stop' to another character, refusing to grant entry.

Examples

Niego la entrada a cualquiera sin una invitación.

I refuse entry to anyone without an invitation.

Si me pides dinero, te lo niego.

If you ask me for money, I refuse (to give it to) you.

Niego mi apoyo a ese candidato.

I withhold my support from that candidate.

Using Reflexively (Negarse)

The verb is often used with 'me' (negarse a) when you mean 'I refuse to do something': 'Me niego a trabajar más' (I refuse to work more).

Rechazo vs. Niego

Learners often confuse 'rechazo' and 'niego' because both can imply refusal. Remember that 'rechazo' is more about rejecting or disavowing, while 'niego' is about actively withholding or denying something specific.

Related Translations

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