recusarse

Recusarse is a Spanish verb, used reflexively, that means to refuse to do something, to abstain from participating in an action or process, or to excuse oneself from a duty or proceedings. It is common in everyday speech as well as in formal or institutional contexts, including legal settings where a person may decline to participate in a case.

Etymology and meaning: Recusarse comes from the verb recusar, with the reflexive pronoun forming a distinct sense of self-exemption. The verb shares its origin with Latin recusāre, “to refuse.” As a pronominal verb, its core meaning is inseparable from the act of withdrawing from participation.

Usage notes: Recusarse is typically followed by a preposition and an infinitive: me recuso a hacer algo, te recusas a participar, se recusa a declarar. In legal contexts, recusar y recusarse can appear in similar registers, but with nuance: recusar (without se) is to challenge the impartiality of a person or institution (recusar al juez), while recusarse (with se) emphasizes the act of abstaining or declining oneself. A related verb, abstenerse, expresses abstention in a broader or less formal sense, often for personal or procedural reasons.

Conjugation: Recusarse is a regular -ar verb with reflexive pronouns. Present indicative: me recuso, te recusas, se recusa, nos recusamos, os recusáis, se recusan. Preterite: me recusé, te recusaste, se recusó, nos recusamos, os recusasteis, se recusaron.

Examples: “Me recuso a firmar ese documento.” “El abogado se recusó a intervenir en el caso.” “El testigo se recusó a declarar.” Refusal or abstention is usually due to personal, ethical, or procedural considerations.