disapprove

[dis-uh-proov]

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.

verb (used without object)

disapproved, disapproving 

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

disapprove

/ ˌdɪsəˈpruːv /

verb

1. to consider wrong, bad, etc

2. (tr) to withhold approval from

Other Word Forms

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of disapprove¹

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

Example Sentences

The black-and-white scarf, a symbol of Palestinian liberation, often sparks comments from patients, some of them disapproving.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

His numbers have stayed there, seemingly depressed from voters who disapprove of his National Guard stunts and immigration crackdown; they have told pollsters the president went “too far.”

Read more on Salon

Overall, 39% of respondents supported the appearance of the flags while 28% disapproved - but about a quarter of voters surveyed had mixed feelings.

Read more on BBC

Since he first announced his candidacy for president in 2015, he has often said that one person or another should not be “allowed” to say things of which he disapproves.

Read more on Salon

A Newport Beach society woman, a former Angeleno, caught hell for even saying--never mind that she disapproved of it--that some of her friends still go to Los Angeles to have their hair styled.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Related Words

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