Meaning of deny In English

• 0 to say that something is not true:

  • He will not confirm or deny the allegations.

  • [ + that ] Neil denies that he broke the window, but I'm sure he did.

  • [ + -ing verb ] Neil denies breaking the window.

  • There's no denying that this has been a difficult year for the company.

• 1 to not allow someone to have or do something:

  • Her request for time off work was denied.

  • No one should be denied a good education./A good education should be denied to no one.

  • [ + two objects ] The goalkeeper denied him his third goal.

  • I was denied the opportunity of learning French at school.

• 2 to not admit that you have knowledge, responsibility, feelings, etc.:

  • He denied all responsibility for the rumours which have been circulating.

  • Even under torture, he refused to deny his beliefs/faith.

  • Many parents deny themselves so that their children can have the best.

  • She has denied her family and refuses to have any contact with them.

• 3 to say that something is not true:

  • The governor denied reports that he will resign.

  • [ + that clause ] She has denied that she plans to run for mayor.

• 4 to refuse to permit or allow someone to do something:

  • She denied herself the things that would make her happy.

• 5 to fail to admit that you have knowledge, responsibility, or feelings:

  • He denied knowing about the plan.