disapprove

[ dis-uh-proov ]

verb (used with object)

, dis·ap·proved, dis·ap·prov·ing.

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)

, dis·ap·proved, dis·ap·prov·ing.

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

disapprove

/ ˌdɪsəˈpruːv /

verb

1. introften foll byof to consider wrong, bad, etc
2. tr to withhold approval from

Derived Forms

• ˌdisapˈprovingly, adverb
• ˌdisapˈproving, adjective

Other Words From

• disap·prover noun
• disap·proving·ly adverb
• postdis·ap·proved adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of disapprove¹

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

Example Sentences

Nearly 6 out of 10 voters disapprove of President Joe Biden's performance over the last four years, underscoring the importance of Harris' separation from the President's term.

From Salon

A statewide poll conducted by the Public Policy Institute of California, or PPIC, in October found that a majority of voters disapprove of Newsom’s performance as governor.

From Los Angeles Times

His ratings were worse in the Central Valley, Orange County, San Diego and the Inland Empire, where about 6 in 10 voters disapprove.

From Los Angeles Times

This, though, is inconsistent with polls and public response, which suggest that the state’s people overwhelmingly disapprove of the law.

From Slate

“Strong majorities express little or no trust in the incumbent and disapprove of the way he has performed his job,” it said.

From BBC

Related Words

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