refute
rih-FYOOT
Refute (verb) means to prove that a claim or argument is false or wrong. Example: “The scientist refuted the theory with new experimental data.”
verb
1
To prove that a claim or argument is false or wrong.
"The scientist refuted the theory with new experimental data."
"His alibi refuted the accusation entirely."
How to use refute
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo show, with evidence or argument, that something someone said is false.
Common mistake
Refute means to prove something wrong, not simply to deny or disagree with it — many people use it loosely to just mean "reject," which stricter usage guides consider incorrect.
Common pairings
refute a claim
refute an argument
attempt to refute
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Word forms
- Third person singular
- refutes
- Past tense
- refuted
- Archaic forms
- refutest, refutedst, refuteth
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The scientist _____ the theory with new experimental data.
Etymology
From Latin refutare, "to drive back, repudiate."
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for refute
See all rhymes for refute →Frequently asked questions
What does “refute” mean?
The word “refute” means to prove that a claim or argument is false or wrong. In plain terms, to show, with evidence or argument, that something someone said is false.
How do you pronounce “refute”?
“Refute” is pronounced rih-FYOOT (/ɹɪˈfjut/ in IPA).
How do you use “refute” in a sentence?
Here is “refute” used in a sentence: “The scientist refuted the theory with new experimental data.”
What part of speech is “refute”?
“Refute” is a verb.
Where does the word “refute” come from?
The word “refute” comes from Latin. From Latin refutare, "to drive back, repudiate.".
Is “refute” a common word?
“Refute” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
