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

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of disapprove¹

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

Example Sentences

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.”

From Salon

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

From 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.

From 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.

From Los Angeles Times

Thirty-eight percent of Conservative and Orthodox Jews disapproved or strongly disapproved of the war in the territory; 58% in the Reform category felt this way and 57% in the nonaffiliated one.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

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