disabuse

[ dis-uh-byooz ]

verb (used with object)

, dis·a·bused, dis·a·bus·ing.

1. to free (a person) from deception or error.

disabuse

/ ˌdɪsəˈbjuːz /

verb

1. trusually foll byof to rid (oneself, another person, etc) of a mistaken or misguided idea; set right

Derived Forms

• ˌdisaˈbusal, noun

Other Words From

• disa·busal noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of disabuse¹

From the French word désabuser, dating back to 1605–15. See dis- ¹, abuse

Example Sentences

And while race and class aren’t explicitly addressed, it’s impossible not to view our protagonist’s actions through a ready-made privilege that Eastwood doesn’t disabuse us of pondering.

From Los Angeles Times

Answering hard questions runs the risk of disabusing some voters of who they think or hope she is.

From Los Angeles Times

He added: “We’re taking a look at it. But I would disabuse you at this early hour of any connection to Ukraine.”

From New York Times

The White House has quickly said there is no indication that Ukraine or any Ukrainians were involved in the attack, with a spokesperson saying they wanted to "disabuse" reporters of any connection.

From BBC

“Moonshine,” a Canadian dramedy available on the CW’s website, has enough dysfunction and wild behavior to largely disabuse one of this dream … but enough Canadian charm that it still holds a certain appeal.

From New York Times

Related Words

• debunk
• disillusion
• enlighten