Meaning & Definition of word "Gainsay"
Gainsay
/ˈɡeɪnˌseɪ/
verb:
- 1. To deny or contradict a statement or claim.
- Example: Despite the evidence presented, she chose to gainsay the accusations against her.
- 2. To speak against or oppose something.
- Example: It is hard to gainsay the importance of education in our society.
- 3. To declare something is false or unjust.
- Example: No one could gainsay the fact that he was one of the best players on the team.
Etymology
●Early 14th century from the word 'gainsayan', meaning 'to say against'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
gainsay the facts:
to deny the truth of the facts
to gainsay authority:
to contradict or oppose someone in a position of power
Related Words
deny:
to say that something is not true
refute:
to prove that something is wrong
dispute:
to argue about or discuss
oppose:
to resist or confront
Slang Meanings of gainsay
Meaning: to call out someone
● Example Sentence: If you don't agree, just gainsay me.
Meaning: to doubt what someone says
● Example Sentence: Don't gainsay me on this; I've done my research.