negar
to deny / to refuse
Intermediate Verb
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Pronunciation
/neˈɣaɾ/
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Cultural Note
Negar has two important uses: 'negar algo' (to deny something) and the reflexive 'negarse a' (to refuse to do something). Both are essential in conflict and communication contexts. The stem change e→ie is important. In legal and formal Spanish, 'negar los cargos' (to deny the charges) is a standard phrase.
📝 Example Sentences
Negó haberla visto esa noche.
He denied having seen her that night.
No me niegues la oportunidad de explicarme.
Don't deny me the chance to explain myself.
Se negó a contestar la pregunta.
She refused to answer the question.