refuse to entertain

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "refuse to entertain" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when indicating a decision not to consider or engage with a particular idea, proposal, or request. Example: "The committee decided to refuse to entertain any further discussions on the matter after the final vote."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

31 human-written examples

A warped idea I refuse to entertain.

The Guardian

Others, such as Tuvalu, refuse to entertain the idea of leaving their land.

The Guardian

The party may therefore refuse to entertain a rerun afterwards, even if that is its way to power.

The Economist

I am one of the EU migrants who refuse to entertain applying for residency documents out of principle.

The Guardian

Administration officials, he said, "refuse to entertain the notion that the health care law might be struck down," and they have not developed a backup plan.

The New York Times

On the one hand, if courts refuse to entertain any claims of partisan gerrymandering, the temptation to use partisan favoritism in districting in an unconstitutional manner will grow.

The Washington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

29 human-written examples

But Trump refused to entertain that proposal.

The Washington Post

Kearney refused to entertain that thought.

The New York Times - Magazine

Dino initially refused to entertain the idea of moving.

The Guardian - Sport

And all along she has refused to entertain any deals.

The New York Times

He refused to entertain questions about his future.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "refuse to entertain", ensure the context clearly indicates the reason for the refusal. Providing a rationale, even if brief, can enhance clarity and avoid ambiguity.

Common error

While "refuse to entertain" is acceptable, consider using more formal alternatives like "decline to consider" or "reject outright" in professional or academic writing to maintain a sophisticated tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "refuse to entertain" functions as a verb phrase. It indicates a decision to reject or decline to consider something. As per Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

25%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "refuse to entertain" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression that indicates a rejection or unwillingness to consider something. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness. While versatile, its register leans towards neutral to formal, making it suitable for news, academic, and professional contexts. Alternatives such as "decline to consider" or "reject outright" may be more appropriate in certain formal situations. Remember to provide context when using the phrase to ensure clarity and avoid ambiguity. The phrase is most frequently found in News & Media, Academia, and Science contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

decline to consider

Indicates a polite rejection of an idea or proposal.

reject outright

Emphasizes a complete and immediate refusal.

dismiss the notion

Suggests treating an idea as unworthy of consideration.

won't countenance

Implies a disapproval and unwillingness to allow something.

turn down flat

Highlights a direct and unequivocal rejection.

disregard completely

Focuses on ignoring or paying no attention to something.

rebuff entirely

Suggests a blunt and decisive rejection.

brush aside

Implies a dismissive or hurried rejection.

rule out entirely

Indicates excluding something as a possibility.

have none of it

Expresses strong disapproval and rejection.

FAQs

How can I use "refuse to entertain" in a sentence?

You can use "refuse to entertain" to indicate a rejection of an idea or proposal. For example, "The committee decided to refuse to entertain any further discussions on the matter."

What can I say instead of "refuse to entertain"?

You can use alternatives like "decline to consider", "reject outright", or "dismiss the notion" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "refuse to entertain" or "decline to consider"?

"Decline to consider" is generally more formal and polite. "Refuse to entertain" can sometimes sound more assertive or dismissive. Choose the phrase that best fits the tone and context of your writing.

What does it mean to "refuse to entertain" an idea?

To "refuse to entertain" an idea means to reject it and refuse to give it any consideration. It implies a closed-minded approach to the idea in question.