# non-denial denial

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/non-denial-denial
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

A statement which appears to deny that something is true, but which, when examined carefully, can be seen to have used diversion, bluster, or ambiguity to avoid making a clear, direct denial.

## Examples

- The politician gave a non-denial denial when asked about the scandal.
- Instead of answering the question directly, the CEO offered a non-denial denial that left everyone wondering if the rumors were actually true.
- The spokesperson skillfully employed a non-denial denial, using vague language to deflect accountability while carefully avoiding any explicit confirmation of the alleged misconduct.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.