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verb B2 Upper-Intermediate

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 notes

In 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.

Common pairings
disapprove of strongly disapprove

Word forms

disapproved past tense, disapproves singular

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Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

Her parents _____ of her new boyfriend.

Etymology

From dis- + approve.

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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