rebut
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /rɪˈbʌt/
KK: /rɪˈbʌt/
intransitive verb
Definition
To present evidence or arguments that contradict or oppose something that has been said or claimed.
Example
During the debate, she decided to rebut the accusations made against her.
Tense Forms
Past: rebutted
Past Participle: rebutted
Conversation
Did you hear the debate last night?
Yeah, I thought it was pretty interesting.
I was surprised how well he could rebut the main arguments.
Right? It really showed his knowledge on the topic.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
refute
dispute
contradict
Antonyms
accept
concede
agree
transitive verb
Definition
To argue against something or to prove that it is wrong by providing evidence or reasons.
Example
The lawyer was able to rebut the accusations with strong evidence.
Tense Forms
Past: rebutted
Past Participle: rebutted
Conversation
Did you hear the debate last night?
Yeah, I thought it was interesting, especially how they tried to rebut each other's points.
I agree, but some arguments felt weak and didn't really hold up.
Root Explanation
Rebut → It is formed from "re-" (meaning again) and "buttare" (meaning to beat or push). The word means to push back or counter an argument again.
Memory Tip
Think of 'pushing back' an argument — 're-' means again, and 'buttare' means to push.
Visually Confused Words
recut
debut