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demur

English → EnglishformalInstant · from the shared dictionary
Illustration of "demur": To demur means to raise doubts, show reluctance, or object to a suggestion or course of action. The

What does "demur" mean?

To demur means to raise doubts, show reluctance, or object to a suggestion or course of action. The mental image is of someone pausing, perhaps stepping back slightly, to express a polite but firm hesitation because they are not fully comfortable with what is being proposed. While it is a formal term, it is frequently used in professional or legal contexts to describe a quiet, respectful refusal or a statement of disagreement. It carries a sense of decorum; one demurs rather than bluntly arguing or shouting. It is often followed by the preposition "to" or "at."

"demur" in conversation

Work meeting

I propose we move the entire project deadline to next Friday.

I propose we move the entire project deadline to next Friday.

I must demur on that, Sarah; the team is already at full capacity.

I must demur on that, Sarah; the team is already at full capacity.

Used to express professional disagreement without being aggressive.

Planning a trip

Let's go skydiving this afternoon!

Let's go skydiving this afternoon!

I’ll have to demur at that suggestion—I’m afraid of heights.

I’ll have to demur at that suggestion—I’m afraid of heights.

Shows a polite way to decline an intense activity.

"demur" in a sentence

  1. She demurred when asked to lead the project.

    She demurred when asked to lead the project.

  2. The committee demurred at the proposal, citing budget constraints.

    The committee demurred at the proposal, citing budget constraints.

  3. Though he initially demurred to the controversial suggestion, he eventually agreed to consider it.

    Though he initially demurred to the controversial suggestion, he eventually agreed to consider it.

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