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verb

abweisen

reject · turn away

Jemandem klar machen, dass man etwas nicht annimmt oder nicht zulässt.

Definition & meaning

The verb abweisen primarily means to reject, turn away, or dismiss. It is used in several contexts:

  1. To reject a request or offer: When a proposal, an application, or an invitation is not accepted. For example, if a court dismisses a lawsuit, it is described as "eine Klage abweisen."
  2. To turn someone away: This refers to refusing entry to someone at a door, a border, or an event.
  3. To repel or deflect: In a more technical or physical sense, it describes the ability of a surface to keep something off, such as water-repellent material (wasserabweisend).
  4. To rebuff a person: It can also mean to coldly dismiss someone's advances or attempts at contact.

Grammar & Word origin

The word is a strong (irregular) verb. Its principal forms are:

  • Infinitive: abweisen
  • Preterite: wies ab
  • Past Participle: hat abgewiesen

It is a separable verb, meaning the prefix ab- moves to the end of the sentence in simple present and past tense clauses.

Structurally, it consists of:

  • ab-: A prefix often indicating removal, downward motion, or away from a point.
  • weisen: A verb meaning "to point" or "to show."

Literally, abweisen translates to "pointing someone away."

Synonyms & antonyms

Synonyms:

  • ablehnen: To decline or refuse (commonly used for offers or requests).
  • zurückweisen: To rebuff or push back.
  • verweigern: To deny or refuse permission.
  • ausschlagen: To turn down (specifically an offer or inheritance).
  • abfertigen: To dismiss someone quickly or curtly.

Antonyms:

  • annehmen: To accept or take on.
  • akzeptieren: To accept.
  • hereinlassen: To let in or admit someone.
  • bewilligen: To grant or approve (a request or funds).
  • aufnehmen: To admit, record, or take in.

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Examples

Viele Menschen weisen manchmal Anfragen ab.verb

Many people sometimes reject requests.

Warum wies die Firma den Bewerber ab?verb

Why did the company reject the applicant?

Das Hotel musste Gäste ohne Reservierung abweisen.verb

The hotel had to turn away guests without reservations.

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