refuses to submit

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "refuses to submit" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing someone or something that is unwilling to yield, comply, or give in to pressure or authority. Example: "Despite the overwhelming odds, she refuses to submit to the demands placed upon her."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

36 human-written examples

"Whoever refuses to submit must beware!

The New Yorker

Yanagihara, however, refuses to submit to the expected narrative arc of redemption and rebirth.

Independent

In Certainly, Erykah Badu gazes steadfastly into the face of male power and refuses to submit.

The Guardian - Music

She possesses strong morals and refuses to submit to passion without the prospect of marriage.

The Guardian - Books

"(3) The visitor refuses to submit to search or show proper identification upon request.

Cornell University

The visitor refuses to submit to search, if requested to do so, or show proper identification.

Cornell University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

24 human-written examples

He refused to submit.

The New York Times

They refuse to submit to performance reviews.

The Economist

Arrau refused to submit to another teacher.

The New York Times - Arts

Several cross-dressers refused to submit to anatomical inspections.

The New York Times

The White House caved and refused to submit the bill.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use “refuses to submit” to convey a strong sense of resistance or defiance, particularly in situations involving power dynamics or authority.

Common error

Avoid using “refuses to submit” in extremely informal contexts. While generally acceptable, it can sound overly dramatic or formal in casual conversation. Consider using alternatives like “won’t give in” or “isn’t going along with it” for less formal situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "refuses to submit" functions as a verb phrase indicating a deliberate and active rejection of yielding or conforming. Ludwig confirms its usability, showing it commonly describes resistance to authority or pressure.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Academia

16%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Science

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "refuses to submit" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to convey resistance and defiance. As Ludwig AI confirms, its primary function is to describe a deliberate rejection of yielding to authority or pressure. Predominantly found in news and media contexts, it carries a neutral to formal tone. When choosing alternative phrases, consider the subtle differences in formality and emphasis to best suit your intended meaning. Remember to avoid overusing it in casual settings where less formal language might be more appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

declines to yield

More formal alternative, emphasizing a conscious choice against yielding.

resists compliance

Highlights active opposition rather than passive refusal.

opposes submission

Focuses on actively opposing the act of submission.

rebels against authority

Implies a broader rejection of authority, potentially more dramatic.

defies orders

More specific to situations involving direct commands.

stands in defiance

Emphasizes a bold and public opposition.

won't give in

Informal and emphasizes determination.

remains intransigent

Formal and highlights a stubborn refusal to compromise.

rejects subjugation

Highlights a forceful rejection of being brought under control.

bucks the trend

Suggests resisting popular opinion or accepted norms.

FAQs

How to use “refuses to submit” in a sentence?

You can use “refuses to submit” to describe someone or something that is unwilling to yield, comply, or give in to pressure or authority. For example, “The activist "refuses to submit" to the government's demands.”

What can I say instead of “refuses to submit”?

You can use alternatives like “"declines to yield"”, “"resists compliance"”, or “"won't give in"” depending on the context.

Which is correct, “refuses to submit” or “refuse to submit”?

“Refuses to submit” is correct when referring to a singular subject in the present tense. “Refuse to submit” is correct when referring to a plural subject or using it in the infinitive form.

What's the difference between “refuses to submit” and “"refuses to comply"”?

While similar, “"refuses to comply"” typically implies a refusal to follow rules or regulations. “Refuses to submit” suggests a deeper resistance against being controlled or dominated.