disaffection

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "disaffection" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a feeling of dissatisfaction or lack of loyalty towards someone or something, often in a political or social context. Example: "The disaffection among the citizens was evident during the protests against the government."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The growth of nationalism in the UK is unwelcome and destructive; properly endorsing our membership of the EU would do much to stem the tide of disaffection.

The Guardian

In Bristol, it is easy to find the same sense of disaffection and a distinct perception that renting carries a stigma.

The Guardian

Today, even ruthless despotism, as the implosion of Iraq, Libya and Syria reveals, is no longer a reliable bulwark against militant disaffection.

The Guardian - Opinion

Disaffection has been the persistent backdrop to this campaign We invited our panel to choose a photograph summing up their feelings as the campaign began.

The Guardian

What is striking in Dundee West is that people's disaffection with Labour is local as much as national.

The Guardian

Meanwhile the society's growing membership and ever larger numbers coming to its public conferences have proved that - whatever the wider trends to political apathy and disaffection - the appetite for radical thought and searching debate on the left of centre remains undiminished.

The Guardian

Pein dates its decline – "it fell off a cliff" – to the 1980s, a decade that saw the narrowing of the curriculum and a subsequent disaffection among teachers.

The Guardian - Opinion

A recent study commissioned by the French government found that, of 166 violent attacks, 11 were motivated by neo-Nazism; about 50 by the Arab-Israeli conflict; the rest were attributed to general "disaffection".Yet Marc Knobel, of the Representative Council of French Jewish Institutions, says "the image of France as an anti-Semitic country is nonsense".

The Economist

The president's popularity has collapsed, from a high of 65% last July to only 37% this month, according to TNS-Sofres, a pollster.If Mr Sarkozy is to rebuild his credibility, he needs to deal with two main causes of voters' disaffection.

The Economist

Among the young, however, there are signs of disaffection.

The Economist

In an unprecedented, and unprecedentedly loud, display of disaffection with their government, thousands took to their windows and balconies with kitchen utensils.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing "disaffection", clearly identify the source or cause of the feeling to provide context and avoid ambiguity. For instance, specify "disaffection with the government" or "disaffection among the youth".

Common error

Avoid assuming that "disaffection" is universal or applies to everyone in a particular group. Qualify your statements with specific evidence or examples to support your claims.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "disaffection" is as a noun. It represents a state of mind or feeling characterized by discontent and a loss of loyalty, as seen in Ludwig AI's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "disaffection" is a noun denoting discontent or alienation. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. It is frequently found in news and media contexts. To use "disaffection" effectively, specify its source and avoid overgeneralizations. Related terms include "alienation" and "estrangement", each with distinct nuances. Understanding these nuances will allow you to appropriately use "disaffection" in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Alienation

Focuses on the feeling of being isolated from a group or activity.

Estrangement

Highlights a breakdown in a relationship or connection.

Discontent

Emphasizes a lack of satisfaction with current circumstances.

Dissatisfaction

Indicates a feeling of displeasure or disappointment.

Loss of loyalty

Specifically refers to the erosion of allegiance or faithfulness.

Lack of engagement

Points to a withdrawal from active participation or interest.

Growing cynicism

Suggests an increasing distrust in motives and integrity.

Erosion of trust

Highlights a decline in confidence and reliance.

Simmering resentment

Implies a suppressed feeling of bitterness and anger.

Waning enthusiasm

Indicates a decrease in passion and excitement.

FAQs

How can I use "disaffection" in a sentence?

You can use "disaffection" to describe a general state of discontent, as in "The "disaffection with the government" is growing". Alternatively, use it to indicate a loss of loyalty, such as "His "disaffection with the party" became apparent after the scandal".

What are some synonyms for "disaffection"?

Some synonyms for "disaffection" include "alienation", "estrangement", "discontent", and "dissatisfaction". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "disaffection for" or "disaffection with"?

Both "disaffection for" and "disaffection with" are acceptable, but "disaffection with" is more commonly used, particularly when referring to institutions, policies, or systems. "Disaffection for" might be preferred when referring to a person or specific entity.

How does "disaffection" differ from "disillusionment"?

"Disaffection" generally refers to a broader sense of discontent or loss of loyalty. "Disillusionment" implies a loss of faith or idealism after realizing that something is not as good as one believed. While related, "disillusionment" often involves a prior positive belief, whereas "disaffection" may simply reflect growing dissatisfaction.