WordValerefute
to prove a statement to be wrong
to prove a claim to be false
In more detail
1. (verb) to prove that a statement or belief is wrong
2. (verb) to deny or reject a claim or accusation
Examples
- 1. The scientist refuted the theory by presenting new evidence.
- 2. He refuted the allegations by showing documents that proved his innocence.
How to use refute
Refute means to prove something is false or to counter an argument with evidence or logic. It is stronger than merely disagreeing and implies providing reasoned objection or proof. It differs from deny in that refute specifically addresses the falseness of a statement rather than simply rejecting it.
Common phrases
- refute a claim
- refute an argument
- refute allegations
- refute accusations
- completely refute
- refute the idea that
Synonyms
disprove · rebut · counter · contradict · deny
Opposites
confirm · validate · support
Word family
refutation (noun) · refutable (adjective) · irrefutable (adjective)
A common mistake
Learners sometimes use refute to mean simply disagreeing with or denying something without providing counterargument or evidence, but true refutation requires logical or factual support.
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