rejecting

Rejecting is the act of refusing to accept, approve, or retain something offered, proposed, or encountered. It can refer to a person declining an invitation, a decision to discard an object, or a formal denial of an application or claim. The term derives from the verb reject, which in turn comes from Latin reicere, meaning to throw back.

In social and interpersonal contexts, rejecting can be explicit, such as a direct "no, thank you," or implicit, conveyed through silence or noncommittal language. Effective rejection respects boundaries and timing and is often more tolerable when accompanied by clear reasons or alternatives. The recipient's interpretation, past experiences, and power dynamics shape the impact of rejection.

In professional and institutional settings, rejection covers job applications, proposals, manuscripts, grants, and product or policy approvals. Decisions are typically guided by stated criteria, evaluation processes, and documented rationales. While rejection can be necessary for efficiency and quality, fair procedures seek to minimize bias and provide constructive feedback to improve future outcomes.

Psychologically, rejection can trigger feelings such as disappointment, insecurity, or anger. Rejection sensitivity varies among individuals and can influence social behavior. Coping strategies include reframing the experience, seeking support, and using clear, courteous communication to reduce ambiguity.

Related concepts include refusal, decline, and dismissal.