拒绝

拒绝 means 'refusal' or 'rejection' in English. It refers to the act of declining or turning down something, often in a formal or polite way. Unlike simple 'no,' 拒绝 implies a more deliberate and intentional rejection.

The character 拒 (jù) originally meant 'to resist' or 'to refuse,' while 绝 (jué) means 'to cut off' or 'to end.' Together, they form a strong expression of refusal, suggesting a complete rejection of an offer, request, or idea.

拒绝 is commonly used in formal situations, such as job applications, proposals, or invitations. In Chinese culture, it's considered polite to use 拒绝 rather than just saying 'no,' especially when maintaining social harmony is important.