demur
to object or raise an objection, often politely
Word origin: From Old French demorer, to delay, from Latin demorari, to linger.
Demur in a sentence
Here are example sentences showing demur in a sentence.
When asked to lead the committee, she demurred, citing other duties.
When asked to sign the statement without reading it, she demurred and requested a day to review the terms.
Using “demur” well
Demur means to object or hesitate, usually mildly and politely, pairing with object and balk. Do not confuse it with the adjective demure, meaning reserved or modest, a near-look-alike with a different meaning.
More GRE words starting with D
to engage in something superficially or as a casual pastime
a raised platform for speakers or honored guests
to waste time or act without urgency
to make something slightly wet, or to make a feeling or reaction less strong
marked with spots or patches of color or light
to intimidate or discourage with fear or doubt
to move slowly or waste time idly
a scarcity or shortage of something
Questions about “demur”
Learn words the way the GRE tests them.
Vocabulary sticks when you meet it in real sentences. Practise these words inside text completion and sentence equivalence questions.