# refutation

/ˌɹɛfjuˈteɪʃən/ (US) · /ɹɪfjuːtˈeɪʃən/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/refutation
Updated: 2026-10-18

## Definition

proof that something someone said or believed is wrong. You use it when you show with facts or clear thinking that an idea does not work.

For teachers: proof that a claim, argument, or belief is false, offered through evidence or reasoning. Typically presented as a direct response to a stated position in academic or legal debate.

## Examples

- Her data provides a clear refutation of that claim.
- The lawyer presented phone records as a refutation of the witness's timeline.
- The study stands as a thorough refutation of the theory that smaller classes alone guarantee higher achievement, showing that teaching quality matters far more.

## Synonyms

rebuttal, disproof

## Antonyms

confirmation

## Usage notes

- Commonly followed by 'of' to introduce the claim being disproved.

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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.