How To Use “Repulse” In A Sentence: Usage and Examples

Repulse is a versatile word that can add depth and nuance to your sentences. Whether you want to convey a strong feeling of disgust or simply express the act of pushing someone away, repulse can be a valuable addition to your vocabulary. In this article, we will explore the proper usage of repulse in a sentence and provide examples to help you master this word.

So, how exactly should you use repulse in a sentence? Let’s find out.

When used as a verb, repulse means to cause someone to feel intense disgust or aversion. It can also refer to the act of pushing someone or something away forcefully. To use repulse effectively, it’s important to consider the context and tone of your sentence. By doing so, you can convey your intended meaning with precision and clarity.

Now, let’s delve deeper into the various ways you can incorporate repulse into your writing.

Definition Of Repulse

Repulse is a verb that is commonly used in the English language. It refers to the act of driving back, rejecting, or repelling someone or something. When an individual or an object repulses, it creates a strong feeling of aversion or disgust in others. This powerful word carries a sense of forceful resistance and is often associated with a negative connotation.

Historical Evolution

The term “repulse” has its origins in the Latin word “repulsus,” which means to drive back or repel. Over the course of history, this word has maintained its essence and has been consistently used to describe the act of pushing away or rejecting. From ancient times to the present day, the concept of repulsion has played a significant role in human interactions, both on an individual and societal level.

Different Meanings In Different Contexts

While the primary definition of repulse remains consistent across contexts, it is worth noting that the word can take on slightly different meanings depending on the context in which it is used.

In a Military Context: In military terminology, repulse is often associated with the act of successfully driving back an enemy attack or assault. It implies a defensive victory, where the opposing force is effectively repelled, preventing them from advancing further.

In a Social Context: In social interactions, repulse is commonly used to describe the act of being strongly rejected or rebuffed by someone. It signifies a powerful negative reaction, often resulting in feelings of hurt, embarrassment, or emotional distress.

In a Physical Context: In a physical sense, repulse can refer to the act of physically pushing away or resisting something or someone. It implies a forceful action taken to create distance or prevent contact.

In an Aesthetic Context: In the realm of aesthetics, repulse is associated with a strong feeling of aversion or disgust towards something that is visually or artistically unappealing. It signifies a visceral reaction to an object or artwork that is considered unattractive or offensive.

These varying contexts demonstrate the versatility of the word “repulse” and its ability to adapt to different situations while maintaining its core meaning of rejection or repelling.

How To Properly Use Repulse In A Sentence

When it comes to incorporating the word “repulse” into your sentences, understanding the grammatical rules surrounding its usage is crucial. By grasping these rules, you can effectively convey your ideas and thoughts with precision. Let’s delve into the intricacies of using “repulse” in a sentence and explore the various parts of speech it can assume.

Grammatical Rules

It is important to note that “repulse” is primarily used as a verb in the English language. As a verb, it signifies the act of driving away, rejecting, or repelling something or someone. It implies a strong sense of aversion or disgust towards the subject at hand. To use “repulse” correctly, it is crucial to adhere to the following grammatical rules:

1. Subject-Verb Agreement: Ensure that the subject of your sentence agrees with the verb form of “repulse.” For example, “The foul odor repulses the guests” demonstrates the correct subject-verb agreement.
2. Direct Object: When using “repulse” as a transitive verb, it is essential to include a direct object to indicate what is being repelled. For instance, “The sight of spiders repulses me” illustrates a clear direct object.
3. Prepositions: Occasionally, “repulse” can be used with prepositions to provide more context or specify the manner in which the repulsion occurs. For example, “The gruesome scene repulsed her to the point of nausea.”

Parts Of Speech

While “repulse” is primarily utilized as a verb, it is worth noting that it can also function as a noun in certain contexts. As a noun, “repulse” refers to the act of repelling or the feeling of aversion. Here are a few examples showcasing the different parts of speech “repulse” can assume:

Part of Speech	Example Sentence
Verb	The offensive comments repulse me.
Noun	Her repulse towards horror movies is well-known.

By understanding the various parts of speech “repulse” can take on, you can effectively adapt its usage to suit the context of your sentence.

Examples Of Using Repulse In A Sentence

When it comes to incorporating the word “repulse” into our daily conversations, it is crucial to understand its various contexts and nuances. By exploring a mix of simple and complex sentences, we can gain a comprehensive grasp of how this word can be effectively utilized. Let’s delve into some illustrative examples:

1. Verb: To Cause Intense Disgust Or Aversion

• The putrid smell emanating from the garbage can repulsed me.
• Her blatant disregard for personal hygiene repulses her colleagues.
• The violent scene in the movie repulsed many viewers.

2. Verb: To Drive Back Or Reject Forcefully

• The army repulsed the enemy’s attack with great determination.
• Despite their best efforts, the security guards were unable to repulse the intruders.
• Our team’s solid defense strategy successfully repulsed the opponent’s advances.

3. Noun: A Feeling Of Intense Disgust Or Aversion

• As she watched the horror film, a wave of repulse washed over her.
• His inappropriate behavior towards women triggered a sense of repulse among his peers.
• The sight of the decaying carcass filled him with both fascination and repulse.

4. Noun: The Act Of Driving Back Or Repelling An Attack

• The successful repulse of the invaders was a testament to the army’s strength.
• History books often highlight significant battles and their subsequent repulses.
• The fortified walls of the castle ensured a formidable repulse against any siege.

By examining these examples, we can observe the versatility of the word “repulse” and how it can be employed in various situations. Whether it signifies intense disgust, forceful rejection, or even acts as a noun describing such emotions or actions, “repulse” adds a layer of depth to our language.

Edge Cases Or Things To Consider

When it comes to using the word “repulse” in a sentence, there are a few edge cases and considerations to keep in mind. Understanding these nuances will help you wield this powerful word with precision and clarity.

Common Mistakes People Make When Using Repulse

While “repulse” may seem like a straightforward word to use, there are common mistakes that people often make. These errors can weaken the impact of your sentence or even change its intended meaning. Here are a few pitfalls to avoid:

1. Confusing “repulse” with “repel”: One common mistake is using “repulse” interchangeably with “repel.” While both words convey a sense of driving away or rejecting, “repulse” specifically refers to causing disgust, aversion, or revulsion in someone. It is important to use “repulse” when you want to emphasize the strong negative reaction or repugnance.
2. Overusing “repulse”: Another mistake is overusing the word “repulse” in a sentence or within a piece of writing. While it is a powerful word, using it excessively can dilute its impact and make your writing repetitive. Instead, consider using synonyms or alternative expressions to maintain variety and engage your readers.
3. Incorrect word placement: Proper word placement is crucial for conveying your intended meaning clearly. Placing “repulse” in an awkward position within a sentence can lead to confusion or ambiguity. Ensure that the word is appropriately positioned to emphasize the action or reaction you want to describe.

Avoiding these common mistakes will help you effectively utilize “repulse” in your writing, ensuring that your sentences convey the intended meaning and evoke the desired emotions.

Cultural Or Regional Differences

Language is a dynamic and ever-evolving system, influenced by various cultural and regional factors. The usage and interpretation of words can vary across different communities, making it important to consider these cultural or regional differences when using “repulse” in a sentence.

What may be considered repulsive in one culture might not carry the same weight in another. Cultural norms, values, and sensitivities play a significant role in shaping the perception and understanding of repulsion. It is crucial to be mindful of these differences to avoid unintentionally causing offense or misunderstanding.

Additionally, regional variations in language usage can exist within a single language. Certain phrases or expressions that include “repulse” may be more prevalent or well-known in specific regions. Being aware of these regional differences can help you tailor your writing to your intended audience and ensure effective communication.

Remember, language is a reflection of the diverse world we live in. By considering cultural and regional differences, you can use “repulse” in a way that respects and acknowledges the nuances of different communities, fostering better understanding and communication.

Synonyms Or Alternates To Use

When it comes to expressing the concept of repulse, there are several synonyms or alternate words that can be employed to convey a similar meaning. Each of these alternatives carries its own nuances and can be utilized in different contexts to effectively communicate the idea of repulsion. Let’s explore four such synonyms:

1. Repel

One of the closest synonyms to repulse is “repel.” Both words share the common root of “repulse,” which stems from the Latin word “repellere,” meaning “to drive back.” While repulse often implies a strong emotional or physical aversion, repel generally refers to the act of driving away or keeping something at a distance.

For instance, you could say, “The foul odor repulsed me,” indicating a strong reaction of disgust, or alternatively, “The magnetic fields repelled each other,” indicating a physical force preventing objects from coming together.

Contexts where “repel” might be preferred over “repulse” include situations where the emphasis is on the action of driving away or deterring something, rather than the emotional impact it has on an individual.

2. Revolt

Another synonym for repulse is “revolt.” While both words convey a sense of strong aversion or disgust, “revolt” often carries a more intense connotation, implying a rebellion against or a strong opposition to something.

For example, you could say, “The gruesome scene revolted me,” indicating a profound sense of repulsion, or alternatively, “The citizens revolted against the oppressive regime,” indicating a widespread uprising against an unjust authority.

“Revolt” is particularly suitable when describing situations that evoke a strong sense of moral or ideological opposition, emphasizing the idea of a collective resistance against a repugnant entity or idea.

3. Disgust

A synonym that focuses more on the emotional aspect of repulsion is “disgust.” While repulse and disgust share a similar meaning, “disgust” specifically emphasizes the feeling of intense aversion or loathing towards something.

For instance, you could say, “The sight of the decaying food disgusted me,” indicating a strong feeling of revulsion, or alternatively, “The unethical behavior of the politician disgusted the public,” indicating a profound sense of moral repugnance.

“Disgust” is often preferred when the primary objective is to highlight the emotional reaction and the intensity of the repulsive feeling, rather than the physical act of driving something away.

4. Deter

Lastly, “deter” can be used as an alternate word for repulse, particularly when the focus is on preventing or discouraging someone from taking a particular action or approaching a certain situation.

For example, you could say, “The high security measures deterred potential intruders,” indicating that the strong security measures discouraged or prevented unauthorized access, or alternatively, “The warning signs deterred hikers from entering the dangerous area,” indicating that the signs acted as a deterrent, dissuading individuals from venturing into a hazardous zone.

“Deter” is most appropriate when the intention is to emphasize the preventive aspect of repulsion, highlighting the idea of discouragement or dissuasion from engaging in a specific behavior or entering a particular space.

In conclusion, while repulse serves as the primary term to convey a sense of strong aversion, there are several synonymous alternatives available that can be utilized depending on the specific context and intended emphasis. Whether it’s the act of driving something away, rebelling against it, experiencing intense emotional aversion, or discouraging certain actions, these synonyms offer a range of options to effectively express the concept of repulsion.

Related Phrases Or Idioms

When it comes to incorporating the word “repulse” into everyday language, there are several phrases and idioms that come to mind. These expressions not only add color to our conversations but also provide a deeper understanding of how the word can be used in different contexts. Let’s explore some of these related phrases and idioms:

1. Repel Someone Or Something

Meaning: To drive away or push back someone or something forcefully.

Example sentence: The strong odor of the garbage repelled the guests from entering the kitchen.

This phrase implies a strong sense of rejection or aversion, where the subject actively tries to keep someone or something at a distance. It can be used to describe physical actions, such as using repellent to keep mosquitoes away, or metaphorical situations where someone is repelled by an idea or a person.

2. Repulse At First Sight

Meaning: To feel an immediate strong dislike or aversion towards someone or something upon first encountering them.

Example sentence: The new employee’s arrogant behavior repulsed her colleagues at first sight.

This phrase highlights the intense negative reaction one experiences when encountering someone or something for the first time. It suggests an instant and profound dislike or repulsion, often based on outward appearances or initial impressions.

3. Repulse An Attack

Meaning: To successfully defend against or drive back an aggressive or hostile action.

Example sentence: The well-trained soldiers repulsed the enemy’s surprise attack with their strategic maneuvers.

Here, “repulse” is used in a military context, indicating the act of thwarting an attack or offensive action. It implies a successful defense, where the defending party manages to repel the aggressor and prevent them from achieving their objectives.

4. Repulse With Disdain

Meaning: To reject or refuse someone or something in a contemptuous or scornful manner.

Example sentence: The renowned author repulsed the interviewer’s request for an autograph with disdain.

This phrase emphasizes the strong negative reaction of rejection, accompanied by a sense of superiority or contempt. It suggests that the person or thing being repulsed is unworthy of consideration or attention, leading to a dismissive response.

5. Repulse A Romantic Advance

Meaning: To reject or rebuff someone’s romantic or amorous gestures or advances.

Example sentence: Despite her polite decline, he persisted in his attempts to woo her, forcing her to repulse his romantic advances.

This phrase focuses on the act of rejecting someone’s romantic interest or advances. It implies a clear and deliberate refusal, often due to a lack of mutual attraction or interest. The word “repulse” in this context conveys a sense of strong resistance or rejection.

These phrases and idioms demonstrate the versatility of incorporating “repulse” into our language, allowing us to convey a range of emotions, actions, and attitudes. By understanding these expressions, we can effectively utilize the word in various situations, enriching our communication and expressing ourselves with precision.

Conclusion

In conclusion, understanding how to use the word “repulse” correctly is essential for effective communication and clear expression. By using this word accurately, you can convey a strong sense of rejection or disgust, adding depth and nuance to your language. Whether you are writing an academic paper, crafting a persuasive argument, or simply engaging in a casual conversation, incorporating “repulse” into your vocabulary can elevate your communication skills.

By mastering the correct usage of “repulse,” you can avoid miscommunication or unintentional offense. This word allows you to articulate your feelings of strong aversion or repugnance towards something or someone, enabling you to express your emotions with precision and clarity. Using “repulse” correctly ensures that your message is conveyed accurately, leaving no room for ambiguity or misunderstanding.

As with any new word, the key to incorporating “repulse” into your everyday language is practice. Take the time to familiarize yourself with its correct usage and explore different ways to incorporate it into your sentences. By doing so, you will not only enhance your vocabulary but also develop a more authoritative and sophisticated writing and speaking style.

Ways To Practice Using “Repulse” In Your Own Sentences:

To further enhance your understanding and usage of “repulse,” consider the following exercises:

1. Write a short story or paragraph where you vividly describe a situation or encounter that elicits a strong feeling of repulsion. Ensure that you use “repulse” in a sentence to convey this sentiment effectively.
2. Engage in discussions or debates where you can express your opinions about certain topics or ideas that repulse you. Challenge yourself to incorporate “repulse” into your arguments to emphasize your strong aversion.
3. Practice using “repulse” in everyday conversations with friends, family, or colleagues. By incorporating this word into your daily language, you will gradually become more comfortable and fluent in its usage.

Remember, mastering the correct usage of “repulse” takes time and effort. However, by persistently practicing and incorporating it into your writing and speech, you can confidently wield this powerful word to convey your emotions and ideas with precision and impact.