take no for an answer

English edit

Pronunciation edit

  • (file)

Verb edit

take no for an answer (third-person singular simple present takes no for an answer, present participle taking no for an answer, simple past took no for an answer, past participle taken no for an answer)

  1. (idiomatic, chiefly in the negative) To accept a disappointing response.

Usage notes edit

  • Chiefly used in the negative to indicate perseverance: "He won't take no for an answer."

Translations edit

See also edit