objection
ub-JEK-shun
/əbˈdʒɛkʃən/
An expression or feeling of disapproval or opposition; a reason for disagreeing.
In sales, an objection is not a 'no'; it is often seen as a request for more information or a hurdle that needs to be cleared before the sale can happen.
The story behind the word. From 'ob-' (against) and 'iacere' (to throw). An objection is literally something 'thrown against' your argument to stop its progress.
Word relationships
- hurdle: A hurdle is a physical or metaphorical obstacle; an objection is a verbalized reason for opposition.
- challenge: A challenge is a call to prove something; an objection is a reason not to proceed.
- agreement: Agreement is the absence of objection.
- approval: Approval is positive support, whereas objection is opposition.
Commonly confused with
- rejection: Rejection is a final 'no'; an objection is a specific point of concern that can often be resolved.
Word family
- object (verb): To say that you disagree with or disapprove of something.
- objective (noun/adjective): A goal (noun) or not influenced by personal feelings (adjective).
Collocations
- overcome an objection
- handle objections
- raise an objection
- valid objection
Example sentences
- "The most common objection we hear is that the price is too high for a small business budget." Handling common sales hurdles.
- "Objection, your honor! The witness is speculating." A legal context, showing the word's versatility.
Memory hook
Think of an 'Object' in the middle of the road. You have to move the 'objection' before you can keep driving toward the sale. Throw a block in the way.
When not to use
Do not use 'objection' for a simple 'no thank you'; it implies a specific reason or concern (like price or timing).
Fun facts
- In some religious marriage ceremonies, the priest asks if anyone has an 'objection' to the union, inviting them to 'speak now or forever hold your peace'.
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