an outright rejection

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an outright rejection" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a complete and total refusal of an idea, proposal, or request without any hesitation or ambiguity. Example: "The committee's decision was an outright rejection of the proposed changes to the policy."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

47 human-written examples

It's not an outright rejection of "I'm Yours," but there's nothing as direct or as uncomplicated.

The New York Times - Arts

The "winter pool" is a third option – neither a straightforward offer nor an outright rejection.

The Guardian

Yet that same neat tricolon captures something more complex than an outright rejection of the Blair doctrine.

The Economist

Some have called for an outright rejection, while others have come up with ideas about the principles it should follow.

The Guardian

The initial reaction of Hamas, the dominant militant group in Gaza, was less committal, but was not an outright rejection.

The New York Times

"Even if there isn't an outright rejection," Ms. Modell Rosenthal said, "some boards will drag their feet to the point where the buyer gives up and goes away".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

13 human-written examples

Her comments came just a day after she appeared to take a small step back from an earlier outright rejection of gun control legislation in the wake of the December mass shooting in Newtown, Conn.

Huffington Post

Only Bernie Sanders has adopted a position of outright rejection.

HuffPost

Although the beard cut was more shocking, these latest pictures are a clear and outright rejection of his values, and also as his position as a leader and role model for us religious Jews who still want to be a part of secular culture.

Huffington Post

In the end, my symptoms turned out to be a result of an infection, not of outright rejection.

The New York Times

We may even see a few outright rejections, a la Marlon Brando.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "an outright rejection", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being rejected to avoid ambiguity. For example, specify the proposal, idea, or request that faced "an outright rejection".

Common error

Avoid using "an outright rejection" when the situation is not entirely closed off to future reconsideration or negotiation. Using it prematurely can create unnecessary conflict or appear overly rigid.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an outright rejection" functions as a noun phrase. It describes a specific instance or event of refusing something completely and decisively. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage as shown in the provided examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

24%

Formal & Business

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

8%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an outright rejection" is a noun phrase that describes a complete and decisive refusal. Ludwig AI validates its grammatical correctness and usability across various contexts. It's most frequently found in news media and scientific publications, indicating a formal or neutral register. When using the phrase, ensure clarity about what is being rejected and avoid using it when the situation remains open to negotiation. Consider alternatives like "a complete refusal" or "a firm denial" for nuanced variations. The phrase is common, authoritative, and clear in its communicative purpose.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a complete refusal

Emphasizes the act of refusing completely, focusing on the action itself.

a firm denial

Highlights the decisiveness of the denial, suggesting a strong stance.

a flat refusal

Implies a blunt and direct refusal, leaving no room for negotiation.

a categorical rejection

Indicates a rejection without exception or condition, stressing its comprehensiveness.

a total dismissal

Focuses on the act of disregarding or discarding something entirely.

a definitive no

Simple and clear expression of refusal, highlighting the lack of ambiguity.

a decisive turndown

Emphasizes the conclusive nature of the rejection.

a conclusive rebuff

Suggests a sharp and definite rejection, often in a social context.

an absolute veto

Implies the use of power to completely block something.

a non-acceptance

A more formal way of expressing a lack of acceptance or approval.

FAQs

How can I use "an outright rejection" in a sentence?

You can use "an outright rejection" to describe a clear and complete refusal of something. For example: "The proposal faced "an outright rejection" from the board".

What can I say instead of "an outright rejection"?

You can use alternatives like "a complete refusal", "a firm denial", or "a total dismissal" depending on the context.

Is "an outright rejection" more formal or informal?

"An outright rejection" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. It's a fairly neutral phrase and its appropriateness depends more on the surrounding language and situation.

What is the difference between "an outright rejection" and "a strong disagreement"?

"An outright rejection" implies a complete refusal or dismissal, while "a strong disagreement" indicates opposition but not necessarily a final decision or refusal. A disagreement can lead to further discussion, whereas "an outright rejection" typically signifies the end of consideration.