English Reference
verb · noun

denying

v. · n.
US /dɪˈnaɪɪŋ/ UK /dɪnˈaɪɪŋ/ deny·ing

  1. 01 B1 Intermediate

    v.saying that a statement or accusation is not true.

    v.stating that an allegation or reported fact is untrue; the present participle of the transitive verb 'deny'.

    Simple

    The suspect is still denying any involvement in the robbery.

    In context

    Despite the overwhelming forensic evidence presented by the prosecution, the defendant persisted in denying his presence at the scene of the crime.

    Usage

    Often followed by a noun phrase or a gerund (-ing form).

    Pitfall
    He is denying to have stolen the money. He is denying stealing the money.

    The verb 'deny' is followed by a gerund (-ing form), not an infinitive with 'to'.

  2. 02 B2 Upper Intermediate

    v.refusing to let someone have something or do something.

    v.refusing to grant a request or withholding access to a privilege or resource.

    Simple

    The bank is denying her a loan because of her poor credit history.

    In context

    By denying the refugees entry at the border, the local authorities faced significant criticism from international human rights organisations.

    Usage

    Can take a double object (denying someone something).

  3. 03 C1 Advanced Formal

    n.the act of saying no to something or refusing to admit the truth.

    n.the action of declaring something to be untrue or the act of withholding something.

    Simple

    His constant denying of the facts made it impossible to solve the problem.

    In context

    The persistent denying of basic civil liberties eventually led to a widespread public uprising against the regime.

    Usage

    Often followed by 'of' when used as a gerundive noun.

This entry
Level B1 · Intermediate
Frequency Frequent
Updated