denying

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "denying" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the act of refusing to acknowledge or accept something, often in a legal or personal context. Example: "He is denying any involvement in the incident, despite the evidence presented against him."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

When it was reported in November 2012 that Carr was keeping a diary of his time as foreign minister with the intent of publishing it – based on the accounts of numerous sources – Carr immediately issued a statement denying he was writing a book.

The Guardian

That was at Thirsk and there is no denying that others in this field have stronger form claims but few have her potential for improvement on just her second start and her pedigree is a pleasing blend of speed and more speed.

The Guardian - Sport

One former militant on trial in the US referred to al-Qaida (which in Arabic can also mean a maxim or method), as "a formula system", denying that it was the name of a group.

The Guardian

According to the press council adjudication, a Corby family supporter complained about the article and Rose claims to have left a message with the Herald denying that the network paid for her to go to Bali, but she received no reply.

The Guardian

Certainly not prime minister Abbott, who has spent two election campaigns with his hand on his heart denying any belief in or attachment to those laws.

The Guardian

Supporters of the sex industry respond by denying the scale of human trafficking because it undermines a key plank in their argument that women freely choose to go into prostitution, and the state therefore needs to butt out of their private lives.

The Guardian - Opinion

"The letter leaked to the media, we don't know why it was leaked in the first place because that correspondence was above board," Mbalula said, denying it suggested a bribe was paid.

The Guardian - Sport

Republicans leaders are publicly denying any such deal was made.

The Guardian

"Denying them a say, on an issue which affects them so directly, is unfair, undemocratic and unjustifiable".

The Guardian

There's no denying the fact that my problems were physical, and required a really significant medical intervention to put things right.

The Guardian - Opinion

By denying the existence of class conflict they usually end up fighting on behalf of the prosperous, the articulate and the self-confident.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "denying", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being denied, avoiding ambiguity. For instance, specify whether it's a claim, fact, or accusation.

Common error

Avoid using "denying" with an indirect object without a preposition. Instead of saying "denying him access", use "denying access to him" for better clarity.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "denying" is that of a present participle, typically used as part of a continuous verb tense (e.g., "is denying") or as a gerund functioning as a noun. As Ludwig AI confirms, the examples show that "denying" often introduces a clause specifying what is being negated or disavowed.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "denying" functions as a present participle with the primary purpose of negating or contradicting claims. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use, notably in news and media. While generally neutral in tone, it is crucial to specify the object of denial to maintain clarity. Common errors include misuse with indirect objects, which can be easily avoided by using prepositions. Related phrases like "refuting" or "contradicting" offer nuanced alternatives, enriching expressive options. Ludwig's analysis underscores the importance of precise language when employing "denying" in various contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

contradicting

Focuses on directly opposing or asserting the opposite of a statement.

refuting

Emphasizes proving a statement to be false or incorrect.

rejecting

Highlights the act of refusing to accept or agree with something.

disavowing

Implies a formal or public denial of responsibility or support.

disclaiming

Similar to disavowing, but often used in legal or formal contexts.

repudiating

Suggests a strong rejection, often of something previously supported.

gainsaying

Indicates contradicting or denying, often in a somewhat archaic or literary style.

negating

Focuses on nullifying or making something ineffective.

disputing

Implies questioning or challenging the validity of something.

contesting

Highlights actively challenging or arguing against something.

FAQs

How is "denying" typically used in a sentence?

The word "denying" is often used to express a refusal to accept the truth or existence of something. For example: "He is denying the allegations against him."

What are some alternatives to "denying"?

You can use alternatives like "contradicting", "refuting", or "rejecting" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it grammatically correct to say "denying to do something"?

No, it is not grammatically correct. Instead, use "denying doing something" or "denying that..." For example: "He is denying having committed the crime" or "He is denying that he committed the crime."

What's the difference between "denying" and "refusing"?

"Denying" typically implies a statement or allegation is false, while "refusing" implies a choice not to do something. For example, you might be "denying" an accusation but "refusing" to cooperate.