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Difference between refuse and decline



 
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Difference between refuse and decline #1 (permalink) Wed Jun 14, 2006 19:29 pm   Difference between refuse and decline
 

Hello everybody

I would like to know the difference between refuse and decline . I am aware that. decline means "refuse politely" but could we use refuse in everyday conversation without sounding harsh?

Are the given same?

1- She refused my invitation.
2- She declined my invitation.

Tom
Tom
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Joined: 30 May 2006
Posts: 2061

Difference between refuse and decline #2 (permalink) Wed Jun 14, 2006 20:58 pm   Difference between refuse and decline
 

Hi Tom

Both of your sentences sound relatively formal.
The second sentence (using decline) does sound like she she might have been a bit more diplomatic or polite.

The word refuse is often used in "everyday" conversation like this:

"I refuse to listen to any more of your stupid complaining!!! I'm leaving!!!"

(The size of the letters is supposed to indicate loudness --- i.e., the situation isn't a happy one.) Shocked

Amy
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Joined: 16 Apr 2006
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Location: USA

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