Absolutes Quote by Ambrose Bierce
“REFUSAL, n. Denial of something desired; Refusals are graded in a descending scale of finality thus: the refusal absolute, the refusal condition, the refusal tentative and the refusal feminine. The last is called by some casuists the refusal assentive.”
About This Quote
Source Dictionary entry: 1891, The Devil’s Dictionary, Ambrose Bierce
The term describes varying degrees of denial, from absolute to tentative, highlighting how refusals can be nuanced and context‑dependent.
In simple terms: Refusals can be absolute, conditional, tentative, or feminine.
Key Takeaway
Recognize the subtlety in how people say “no.”
Themes
language
philosophy
communication
Mood
analytical
thoughtful
Type
definitional
philosophical
When to use this quote
- negotiations
- personal boundaries
- legal contracts
- customer service
Key Concepts
semantics
negation
social dynamics
Questions to Reflect On
- How does the phrasing of a refusal affect its impact?
- When is a tentative refusal more useful than an absolute one?
A Different Perspective
Not all refusals carry the same weight; context matters.
![“Their [the U.S.’s] defense budget in absolute figures is almost 25 times bigger than Russia’s. This is what in defense is referred to as ‘their home — their fortress.’ And good for them, I say. Well done!” quote by Vladimir Putin](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/ec3/vladimir-putin-261_absolutes_their-the-u-s-s-defense-budget-in-absolu_10791.jpg)
