Antonyms for the phrase "asked in marriage" include "rejected," "declined," and "denied." When someone rejects a marriage proposal, they are essentially saying that they do not wish to enter into a legal and/or emotional partnership with the proposer. Declining a marriage proposal, on the other hand, may suggest that the person is not ready for marriage or does not feel that they are a good match for the proposer. Lastly, denial of a proposal may stem from the person's lack of interest in the proposer or their view that marriage is not a desirable institution for them.