# rebuttal

/ɹiˈbətəɫ/ (US) · /ɹɪbˈʌtəl/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/rebuttal
Updated: 2026-05-08

## Definition

a statement or speech that explains why someone else's argument is wrong. You use it to defend your ideas by showing the mistakes in the other person's logic.

For teachers: the act of refuting or contradicting an argument by offering contrary evidence or reasoning. Often used in formal debate or legal proceedings to address specific points raised by an opponent.

## Examples

- She prepared a strong rebuttal to his claims.
- The lawyer's rebuttal focused on the inconsistencies in the witness's timeline of events.
- The scientist published a detailed rebuttal in the journal, systematically dismantling the flawed methodology used in the previous study's data collection.

## Usage notes

- Commonly paired with the verb 'to offer' or 'to provide'; often takes the preposition 'to' when identifying the target argument.

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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.