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rebut

Say it: rih-BUT /rɪˈbʌt/ · verb

Picture showing the meaning of rebut

What “rebut” means

Show why a claim is wrong using reasons or evidence.

More precisely: To argue that a claim is false, giving evidence or reasons.

Example: “She rebutted every objection in the Q&A with numbers from the pilot study.”

When to use it

When answering an accusation or objection with evidence. More formal and precise than simply saying you disagree.

Similar words

refute, counter, disprove

Where it comes from

From Old French rebuter, from re- + boter, 'to push'.

Quick check

Your neighbour says your dog broke the fence. You show footage of a falling branch breaking it. What does your evidence help you do?

concede or rebut?

Show the answer

rebut

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