How could I tell the difference - turn down, decline, refuse, reject etc.?

Question

1. turn down, decline, refuse, reject
2. offer-propose-suggest
How could I tell the difference?
and please recommand me a book that shows me the way to find the differences between similar words.

Answer 1

They are so close in meaning and practically interchangeable. If English is not your first language, I could see your confusion. Here are my thoughts:
1a - turn down & decline - you turn down or decline someone who asks you on a date and you don't want to go. Decline seems more polite in this case. e.g. I must respectfully decline the invitation, or, I'm sorry, but I have to turn down your invitation.
1b- refuse or reject are more bold statements and not as polite, but can still be used in a polite way. "I refuse to pay for this bill"
2. Offer, propose, and suggest to me are all interchangeable.
Hope that helps!

Answer 2

The only book that could possibly make you understand the differences would be a book on etiquette and a good sense of what is right and what is insulting. Most people have an inate ability to know that an outward rejection as opposed to a polite decline is all about the use of words and body language. For line 2, you can offer your thoughts, propose a project, or suggest a change. You have to have a good command of the English language to understand the usages under good protocol and conduct. Classes in proper use of English wouldn't hurt.

Answer 3

These words are practically synonymous so I really don't think you have any reason for serious concern with this issue - but if it still bothers you then you can always invest in a good dictionary and a thesaurus or take a class.

Answer 4

I don't think you need a book. I think you just need a dictionary to look up what the words mean. Here is a link to a good dictionary online....http://dictionary.reference.com/