disapprove

American  

[dis-uh-proov] / ˌdɪs əˈpruv /

verb (used with object)

disapproved, disapproving

1. to think (something) wrong or reprehensible; censure or condemn in opinion.

   Synonyms:

   criticize, decry, deplore

   Antonyms:

   praise

2. to withhold approval from; decline to sanction.

   The Senate disapproved the nominations.

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verb (used without object)

disapproved, disapproving

1. to have an unfavorable opinion; express disapproval (usually followed byof ).

disapprove British  

/ ˌdɪsəˈpruːv /

verb

1. to consider wrong, bad, etc

2. (tr) to withhold approval from

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Other Word Forms

• disapprover noun
• disapproving adjective
• disapprovingly adverb
• postdisapproved adjective

Etymology

Origin of disapprove

First recorded in 1475–85; dis- ¹ + approve

Example Sentences

My friends and I, boys included, had sometimes slipped out in the evenings and gathered at the corner near the lamppost to gab—at least until the disapproving frowns of elders drove us home.

From Literature

Several polls conducted since the bombing indicate that a majority of Americans disapprove of the military action.

From BBC

I read the poem again with all this background information in mind, and now it seems like Emily Dickinson disapproved of people who wanted to succeed.

From Literature

That left 30% whose opinion was only “somewhat” approve or disapprove.

From The Wall Street Journal

Sitting back, I took a sip of water, my eyes still streaming as my mom shot me a disapproving look.

From Literature

Related Words

• decry
• denounce
• deplore
• dislike
• oppose
• reject
• veto