objection
B1Pronunciation
UK
- /ɒbdʒˈɛkʃən/
US
- /əbˈdʒɛkʃən/
Description
- disagreement
- protest
- challenge
- opposition
- complaint
An objection is more than just saying "no." It is a reason for disagreeing with something, or a point raised against a plan, idea, or action. Think of a courtroom drama: lawyers raise objections to questions they believe are unfair or not allowed. But objections are not limited to legal settings. You might have an objection to a friend's plan for the weekend ("I object to spending all day cleaning!") or to a new policy at work. It is about speaking up, sharing your concern, and explaining why you do not agree. Sometimes an objection is polite; other times, it is a strong protest.
An objection is a statement of disapproval or disagreement, often presented as a reason for opposing something. It's more than just saying "I don't like that"; it involves articulating why you disagree.
The context of an objection matters greatly. In legal settings—think courtroom trials—objections are formal protests against evidence or questioning deemed improper. A lawyer might object to hearsay, leading questions, or irrelevant testimony. These objections follow strict rules and procedures. ("Objection, Your Honor! Leading the witness!")
However, objections appear in everyday life too. You might raise an objection during a team meeting if you disagree with a proposed strategy ("With all due respect, I have an objection to this timeline; it's unrealistic."). Or you might express an objection to a friend's suggestion ("I object to going skydiving! It's far too dangerous.").
Sometimes, "objection" is used playfully or in a dramatic way. For example, people may joke about objecting at a wedding because of the traditional line asking whether anyone has a reason the couple should not marry. But even then, the core meaning is still the same: expressing disagreement or concern.
The strength of an objection can vary from a mild preference to a firm refusal. It's a fundamental part of debate, negotiation, and simply voicing your opinion. So, when you hear someone raise an "objection," listen closely—they're telling you why they don't agree, and understanding that reason is key to finding common ground or resolving conflict.
Examples
- 1
Cost concern
I have one objection to the plan: it costs too much.
- 2
Meeting
She raised an objection during the meeting.
- 3
Starting early
No one had any objection to starting early.
Pattern
objection to + noun/-ing
- 4
Fairness concern
My main objection is that the rule treats small businesses unfairly.
- 5
Formal agreement
If there are no objections, we'll send the report today.
- 6
Permission
He had no objection to me using his laptop for the presentation.
Pattern
have no objection to + person doing something
be willing to allow it
- 7
Courtroom
"Objection, Your Honor," the lawyer said.
Domain
used in court when a lawyer formally disagrees with a question or statement
- 8
Formal approval
The proposal passed without objection.
Phrase
without objection
with no one formally disagreeing
Forms and spellings
2 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- objectionnoun
Forms
- objectionspluralnoun