noun
declination
A polite refusal.
Her gracious declination of the invitation leaves no hard feelings.
Etymology
The Latin verb means to turn aside. A refusal metaphorically turns away from an offer or request, giving declination its courteous negative sense.
More examples
- Please send a written declination if you cannot attend.
- His declination thanks the committee for considering him.
- We receive two declinations and several acceptances.
Forms
declination · declinations
decline verb — To politely refuse an offer or invitation.
Similar words
- refusal
- Refusal is more common and need not be polite.
- rejection
- Rejection often sounds stronger and may express outright disapproval.