but they always refused vs but they kept refusing

Both phrases are correct, but they convey slightly different meanings. 'But they always refused' implies a consistent refusal in the past, while 'But they kept refusing' suggests a repeated or ongoing refusal. The choice between them depends on the specific context and the nuance the speaker wants to convey.

Last updated: March 15, 2024 • 1991 views

This phrase is correct and commonly used to indicate a consistent refusal in the past.

"but they always refused"

This phrase is used to describe a situation where someone consistently refused something in the past. It implies a repeated action of refusal.

Examples:

I offered to help, but they always refused my assistance.
He tried to apologize, but they always refused to forgive him.

Show examples from the web [+]

Jul 18, 2011 ... More than once I recall begging my parents to let me bring a PBJ sandwich to school on Fridays, but they always refused – one of many ...
Jan 25, 2012 ... “We have invited the opposition several times to take part in the national dialogue and negotiations, but they always refused,” said Abdul-Aziz ...
For months, I have begged them to help me stir the sauce or pour ingredients, but they always refused. Now, both girls are begging me at every single meal to ...
Jul 27, 2014 ... I hounded them nightly to “teach me just one thing” but they always refused. Finally, in the wee hours of a Saturday night in 1989 after everyone ...

Alternatives:

but they consistently refused
but they repeatedly refused

This phrase is correct and commonly used to indicate a repeated or ongoing refusal.

"but they kept refusing "

This phrase is used to describe a situation where someone kept refusing something repeatedly or continuously. It implies a persistent action of refusal.

Examples:

I offered to help, but they kept refusing my assistance.
He tried to apologize, but they kept refusing to forgive him.

Show examples from the web [+]

Nov 15, 2013 ... ... of wellness—especially a compound shown to keep DNA from fragmenting during cell reproduction—but they kept refusing to play nice with ...
I tried multiple times, but they kept refusing to honor the warranty, instead, telling me to just return it to Amazon. This case does a good job of protecting the tablet, ...
May 21, 2014 ... I pleaded for an answer but they kept refusing to give the reason… they said that we will revert back to you in the coming month or month and a ...
Dec 22, 2014 ... He pestered the British to let him invade, but they kept refusing. However things changed when the British puppet state of Iraq revolted, and the ...

Alternatives:

but they continued to refuse
but they persistently refused

How TextRanch works

Fast and reliable proofreading, editing, and language advice tailored to your needs.

1. Choose Your Service

Quick Text Editing

Emails and short texts
Proofreading & editing
Ready in 5-10 minutes

SUBMIT YOUR TEXT NOW

Document Editing

Documents of any type (*.docx)
Advanced & Premium editing
Ready in as little as 4 hours

UPLOAD YOUR DOCUMENT

Ask an Editor

Personalized answers to your language questions
Expert guidance on grammar, style, and usage
Ready in 24 hours

ASK YOUR QUESTION

Upload your document or paste your text directly into our platform. Your text is reviewed and refined by our expert editors (real people, not machines) who understand the nuances of English. Expect corrections, improvements, and insightful suggestions that enhance the clarity, tone, and professionalism of your writing.

3. Receive Your Polished Text

In just a few minutes (or hours for longer documents), you'll receive your corrected text. Review the changes, make any final adjustments, and confidently share your polished English with the world.
You can count on a personalized, friendly service every time you use TextRanch. We're committed to helping you make a great impression with every word you write.

We proofread and edit these types of texts and documents:

Short texts Business Emails Personal Emails Social media posts Resume and Curriculum Vitae Business documents Sales proposal Research and academic papers Thesis Dissertation Essays Articles Blog posts and much more....

Why choose TextRanch?

Complete Privacy

Your texts are safe and secure with us. We never share your information with third parties.

Affordable Pricing

No subscription fees and rates up to 50% cheaper than other online editing services.

100% Satisfaction

We guarantee that you'll be satisfied with the quality of our service or your money back.

Top Customer Service

Our team is here to help you with any questions you may have. Contact us anytime.

Our Customers Love Us!

We have an average rating of 4.79 stars based on 283125 votes, and

4.9 Excellent - Reviews 2.137

"7 years without any disappointment. Always 100% satisfied. You guys are the best in the world at what you do. Thank you so much :)"

Zubair
from Bangladesh

"I wasn't aware of this service, it's fascinating and more reliable than standard IA tools available on the internet"

Arturo
from Mexico

"In a world of text messages and online communication, this is great to have as a live tool. Thank you."

Selena
from USA

"Wow, it's just so excellent. I never would have believed I could have a sure and excellent English companion. Thanks, TextRanch."

Ifiok
from Nigeria

"This is my first time using TextRanch, and I like how the editors take time to correct my text. To everyone who has never used TextRanch before, I highly recommend trying it."

Wilson
from France

"It is an amazing source of feedback because, as a non-native speaker, I really need to have a reliable helper correct my text."

Susan
from Germany

but they always refused vs but they kept refusing