Synonyms

disapprove

American

[dis-uh-proov] / ˌdɪs əˈpruv /

verb (used with object)

disapproved, disapproving

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

Synonyms:

criticize, decry, deplore

Antonyms:

praise
to withhold approval from; decline to sanction.

The Senate disapproved the nominations.

verb (used without object)

disapproved, disapproving

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

disapprove British

/ ˌdɪsəˈpruːv /

verb

to consider wrong, bad, etc
(tr) to withhold approval from

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

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

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Until recently, markets had believed that Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi—seen as being in favor of accommodative monetary policy—would disapprove of higher interest rates.

From The Wall Street Journal

She’s adopted a motherly expression—stern eyes, tight lips, and a disapproving frown.

From Literature

But a disapproving pinch from Alexander stopped her.

From Literature

The father disapproved of the stock market, but the payout from his death funded his son into it.

From Literature

Sure, we all disapprove of cheaters, but where would the novel be without them?

From The Wall Street Journal

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023