Choose the best word for each sentence, then use the interactive challenge below.
Practice set
- The witness was urged to speak: adjured.
- The movement solemnly rejected violence: abjured.
- The author took back a statement: retracted.
- The official denied responsibility: disavowed.
- The believer withdrew a former doctrine: recanted.
Interactive question
The organization formally and publicly rejected political violence. Which verb fits best?
Advanced distinction
Abjure emphasizes solemn rejection. Repudiate emphasizes forceful disowning. Recant emphasizes withdrawal of a previously expressed belief or statement.
Frequently asked questions
Is abjure a common word?
No. It is formal and relatively uncommon in everyday conversation.
Does abjure require an actual oath?
Not in modern use, although the historical sense is oath-based.
Is abjure always religious?
No. It can apply to politics, allegiance, ideology, conduct, or habits.
Is it stronger than reject?
Usually yes; it suggests seriousness, finality, or formality.
Can a person abjure a habit?
Yes, especially in elevated or literary language.
Is abjuration always voluntary?
No. Historical abjurations were sometimes coerced.
What is the noun form?
Abjuration.
What is the past tense?
Abjured.
What is the third-person singular form?
Abjures.
What is the closest synonym?
Renounce or forswear, depending on context.