Vocabulary Spotlight
Demur
Part of Speech: Verb, Noun
Definition: (Verb) To raise doubts or show reluctance. (Noun) The action of objecting or hesitating.
“He agreed without demur, surprising everyone with his quick consent.”
Pronunciation
[dih-mur]
Synonyms, Antonyms & Related Words
Synonyms
Hesitate
Protest
Challenge
Disagree
Antonyms
Accept
Consent
Approve
Endorse
Related Words
Objection (noun)
Protest (noun)
Word Origin
“Demur” comes from the Latin “demorari,” meaning “to delay.” In English, it evolved to mean “to hesitate or object.”
Word Family
Noun: Demur – The action of raising objections.
Verb: Demur – To show hesitation or reluctance.
Related Noun: Demurral – The action of objecting or hesitating.
Mnemonics
Think of “demur” as “Doubts Emerge Making Us Reconsider.”
This mnemonic highlights the concept of hesitating or raising objections.
Industry-specific Usage
Law
In legal contexts, “demur” refers to formally objecting to a point of law or argument in court.
Business
In business negotiations, demurring is common when parties raise concerns or suggest changes to proposals.
Journalism
Journalists may demur from publishing stories without verified facts, showing hesitation to avoid misinformation.
In Context
The term “demur” is used when people show reluctance or object to something, whether in everyday decisions, formal discussions, or legal matters. It emphasizes a thoughtful pause before agreeing.