afwijzen
to reject; to turn down
Intermediate Verb
🔊
Pronunciation
/ˈɑf.ʋɛi̯.zən/
💡
Cultural Note
The Dutch are known for being direct, and this applies to rejection too. A Dutch person may plainly say 'nee, ik heb geen interesse' (no, I'm not interested) without considering it rude. This directness is actually considered more respectful than leading someone on.
📝 Example Sentences
Ze heeft hem afgewezen.
She rejected him.
Ik ben bang om afgewezen te worden.
I'm afraid of being rejected.
Hij werd drie keer afgewezen voordat iemand ja zei.
He was rejected three times before someone said yes.