it is refusing

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it is refusing" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a situation where someone or something is not complying or is rejecting a request or command. Example: "Despite my repeated requests, it is refusing to cooperate with the new system."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

41 human-written examples

The other hospital that was involved in treating Victoria is also likely to overhaul its procedures - although it is refusing to comment on the case until the inquiry produces its report later this year.

The Guardian

(Agence France-Presse) SENSITIVITY IN QATAR -- The gulf emirate of Qatar is so sensitive about allowing American warplanes to operate from its territory that it is refusing news media access to Al Udeid, one of the man air bases for American forces.

The New York Times

Greece is refusing to continue with this program, not because it is "refusing its medicine", but because the medicine is actually poison.

Forbes

It is refusing to open its books to Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli's auditors, saying a recent court ruling limits the comptroller's authority to examine its finances.

The New York Times

Its main strategic goal is to join the European Union, yet it is refusing to apply EU sanctions on its traditional ally, Russia.

The Economist

Acorn did not provide a specific time frame for the investigation but says it is refusing new clients in its tax, housing and benefits counseling programs until the review is complete.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

19 human-written examples

It now does not want to ask for help, only to find that it is refused.

The New York Times

For at this precise moment pity is given a chance to enter Dingley's soul, and it is refused admittance.

The Guardian - Books

The essential problem is that products need differentiation to enable the selection of a better quality product, while it is refused to diversify after one being selected.c.

Journal of Economic Structures

Respect for autonomy restricts CPR use when it is refused by the patient but cannot create a 'right to CPR' (Luce, 1995; Hilberman et al, 1997; Willard, 2000).

British Journal of Cancer

It was refusing to exercise judgment.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it is refusing", ensure the subject 'it' is clearly defined and its role in the sentence is unambiguous to avoid confusion.

Common error

Avoid using "it is refusing" when the subject is physically incapable, rather than intentionally unwilling. For example, use "it is unable to" instead of "it is refusing to" when describing a broken machine.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is refusing" functions as a verbal phrase expressing a current action of declining or rejecting. Examples in Ludwig show it used to describe actions of countries, organizations, and even abstract entities like systems or processes.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Reference

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "it is refusing" is a common and grammatically sound way to express non-compliance or rejection. As confirmed by Ludwig, this phrase sees frequent use in News & Media, Science, and Formal & Business contexts. When employing this phrase, clarity is key, particularly in defining the subject 'it'. Alternatives such as "it declines to" or "it is unwilling to" can provide subtle nuances in meaning. Ensure the subject truly refuses due to volition, not inability.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it declines to

Replaces "refusing" with a more formal synonym, "declines", emphasizing a polite but firm rejection.

it is unwilling to

Focuses on the lack of willingness rather than the act of refusal, conveying a similar meaning with a slight shift in emphasis.

it objects to

Highlights the act of raising an objection, suggesting a more active form of resistance than simply refusing.

it is rejecting

Emphasizes a complete dismissal or non-acceptance, similar to refusing but potentially stronger in connotation.

it is resisting

Implies active opposition or struggle against something, going beyond a simple refusal.

it is not complying with

Specifically indicates a failure to adhere to rules or requests, focusing on the lack of compliance.

it is turning down

Uses a phrasal verb to express refusal, often in response to an offer or invitation.

it is holding out against

Suggests a sustained refusal or resistance, often in the face of pressure or persuasion.

it is balking at

Implies hesitation or unwillingness to proceed, similar to refusing but with a sense of reluctance.

it is standing firm against

Emphasizes a resolute and unwavering refusal, often in defense of a principle or position.

FAQs

What does "it is refusing" mean?

The phrase "it is refusing" means that something or someone is unwilling to do something, rejecting a request or command. It indicates a conscious decision not to comply.

What are some alternatives to "it is refusing"?

You can use alternatives like "it declines to", "it is unwilling to", or "it is rejecting" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "it is refusing"?

Use "it is refusing" when describing a situation where an entity has the capacity to comply but chooses not to. For example, "The company is refusing to negotiate".

How does "it is refusing" differ from "it is unable to"?

"It is refusing" implies a deliberate choice not to act, whereas "it is unable to" indicates a lack of capacity or capability. For instance, a device "is refusing" to connect due to a security setting, but it "is unable to" connect if it's broken.