Difference between refuse and decline

[Tom]

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

[Yankee]

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.)

Amy
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Amy
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ESL teacher, translator, and a native speaker of American English