deny

To say that something is not true or did not happen.

• He denied the story.
• She denies knowing anything about the missing keys.
• They denied that anyone had been hurt.

How to use it: deny doing something (She denied taking the money.); deny that… (He denied that he had seen the letter.)

Similar words: reject, dispute

Opposites: admit, confirm

Common phrases: deny a claim, deny doing something, deny responsibility, deny a rumour

To prevent someone from having something or doing something they want.

• They denied us access.
• The injury denied him a place on the team.
• No child should be denied an education.

How to use it: deny someone something (The club denied him entry.); be denied something (She was denied the chance to explain.)

Similar words: withhold, refuse

Opposites: grant, allow

Common phrases: deny someone something, deny access, deny someone entry

To refuse to accept a request or give permission for something.

• The judge denied the request.
• Her visa application was denied.
• Why did they deny permission for the concert?

Similar words: reject, refuse, turn down

Opposites: approve, accept

Common phrases: deny a request, deny an application, deny permission