Not take no for an answer
phrase
To persist or continue until the desired outcome is achieved, despite being initially rejected or refused.
Even though the investors initially rejected his idea, John didn't take no for an answer and kept persuading them until they changed their minds.
Often appears as...
- he doesn't take no for an answer
- she won't take no for an answer
Usage tips
Idiomatic
phrase
To refuse to accept a negative response or rejection; to be assertive in achieving one's goals.
As an entrepreneur, you cannot take no for an answer. You must keep pushing for success.
Often appears as...
- don't take no for an answer
- won't take no for an answer
Usage tips
Idiomatic
phrase
To persist or continue until the desired outcome is achieved, despite being initially rejected or refused.
Even though the investors initially rejected his idea, John didn't take no for an answer and kept persuading them until they changed their minds.
Often appears as...
- he doesn't take no for an answer
- she won't take no for an answer
Usage tips
Idiomatic
phrase
To refuse to accept a negative response or rejection; to be assertive in achieving one's goals.
As an entrepreneur, you cannot take no for an answer. You must keep pushing for success.
Often appears as...
- don't take no for an answer
- won't take no for an answer
Usage tips
Idiomatic
Definition 1 of 2
Pro Tip 1/3Positive Determination
Implies a confident approach to achieving a goal without giving up.
Despite repeated refusals, she did not take no for an answer and finally got the promotion.
Pro Tip 2/3Respect Boundaries
Use it where persistence is appropriate and respectful, not where it might harass or pressure others.
He didn't take no for an answer when requesting feedback, not personal favors.
Pro Tip 3/3Cultural Sensitivity
In some cultures, being too persistent may be seen as rude. Understand the context before using it.
In her culture, not taking no for an answer was seen as impolite, but she adapted to the local business norms.
Pro Tip 1/3Positive Determination
Implies a confident approach to achieving a goal without giving up.
Despite repeated refusals, she did not take no for an answer and finally got the promotion.
Pro Tip 2/3Respect Boundaries
Use it where persistence is appropriate and respectful, not where it might harass or pressure others.
He didn't take no for an answer when requesting feedback, not personal favors.
Pro Tip 3/3Cultural Sensitivity
In some cultures, being too persistent may be seen as rude. Understand the context before using it.
In her culture, not taking no for an answer was seen as impolite, but she adapted to the local business norms.
Pro Tip 1/3Positive Determination
Implies a confident approach to achieving a goal without giving up.
Despite repeated refusals, she did not take no for an answer and finally got the promotion.
Pro Tip 2/3Respect Boundaries
Use it where persistence is appropriate and respectful, not where it might harass or pressure others.
He didn't take no for an answer when requesting feedback, not personal favors.
Pro Tip 3/3Cultural Sensitivity
In some cultures, being too persistent may be seen as rude. Understand the context before using it.
In her culture, not taking no for an answer was seen as impolite, but she adapted to the local business norms.
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