disapprove
dih-suh-PROOV
Disapprove (verb) means to think something is wrong or unacceptable (usually followed by "of"). Example: “Her parents disapproved of her new boyfriend.”
verb
1
To think something is wrong or unacceptable (usually followed by "of").
"Her parents disapproved of her new boyfriend."
"He disapproves of drinking during work hours."
2
To formally reject or refuse to approve something.
"The committee disapproved the proposed budget."
How to use disapprove
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo feel or show that you think something is wrong, or to officially reject it.
Common mistake
When talking about disliking someone's behaviour, you disapprove OF it — leaving out "of" ("I disapprove your choice") sounds wrong in everyday speech.
Easily confused with
Common pairings
disapprove of
strongly disapprove
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Word forms
- Third person singular
- disapproves
- Past tense
- disapproved
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
Her parents _____ of her new boyfriend.
Etymology
From dis- + approve.
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for disapprove
See all rhymes for disapprove →Frequently asked questions
What does “disapprove” mean?
The word “disapprove” means to think something is wrong or unacceptable (usually followed by "of"). In plain terms, to feel or show that you think something is wrong, or to officially reject it.
How do you pronounce “disapprove”?
“Disapprove” is pronounced dih-suh-PROOV (/dɪsəˈpɹuːv/ in IPA).
How do you use “disapprove” in a sentence?
Here is “disapprove” used in a sentence: “Her parents disapproved of her new boyfriend.”
What is the opposite of “disapprove”?
The opposite of “disapprove” — its antonyms — is approve.
What part of speech is “disapprove”?
“Disapprove” is a verb.
How many meanings does “disapprove” have?
“Disapprove” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to think something is wrong or unacceptable (usually followed by "of").
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