repugn
Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: /rɪˈpʌɡn/
KK: /rɪˈpʌŋ/
intransitive verb
Definition
To be in conflict or to oppose something strongly.
Example
The new policy seemed to repugn many employees who preferred the old system.
Tense Forms
Past: repugned
Past Participle: repugned
Conversation
I just can’t believe how much his actions repugn me lately.
Yeah, it's surprising how people can change.
I feel like I'm constantly in conflict with what he stands for.
Totally, it’s tough to reconcile those feelings.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
oppose
resist
contest
Antonyms
accept
agree
concur
transitive verb
Definition
To strongly dislike or find something very unpleasant.
Example
She repugns the idea of lying to her friends.
Tense Forms
Past: repugned
Past Participle: repugned
Conversation
I really repugn the idea of wasting time on pointless arguments.
I know what you mean; some discussions just go in circles.
It's frustrating how people can get so worked up over nothing.
Root Explanation
Repugn is formed from "re-" (meaning against) and "pugnare" (meaning to fight). The word describes a strong feeling of opposition or aversion, as if one is fighting against something.
Memory Tip
Think of 'fighting against' ('re-' means against and 'pugnare' means to fight) to remember that 'repugn' means to feel strong opposition.
Visually Confused Words
expugn