disapprove of something

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "disapprove of something" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when expressing a negative opinion or lack of approval regarding a particular action, idea, or behavior. Example: "Many parents disapprove of the new policy implemented at the school."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

When I morally disapprove of something, I also have these higher-order attitudes towards my own attitudes: I prefer not to desire what I disapprove of.

SEP

When I disapprove of something, when most people would just change the channel, I start hurling socks.

Huffington Post

"It's easy to disapprove of something so literal, but when you get the question 'Can I touch your hair?' in your everyday life, it goes unnoticed.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

He disapproves of something else, however: Joyce's sexual openness.

The New York Times - Books

I'd seen that face before, whenever Aunt Marge disapproved of something, which seemed to be most of the time.

The New York Times - Magazine

If she disapproved of something she had no hesitancy in showing her opinion, which sometimes was trying.

The New Yorker

In July 2003, a contributor to Urbandictionary.com noted that fail could be used as an interjection "when one disapproves of something," giving the example: "You actually bought that?

The New York Times

However, I suspect it is more likely to mostly, and quite literally, turn a subject that people are uncomfortable talking about or disapprove of into something much more cuddly.

Independent

Do something by yourself, something that your ex may have disapproved of, or something that your ex wouldn't have gone in for.

WikiHow

When we hear of a case in the news and the deceased was a victim of something we disapprove of, be it austerity or bullying or whatever it is that we dislike, the temptation to use it as ammunition and declare its simplicity is very strong indeed.

Independent

Even if it means tolerating somebody who [people] really disapprove of, who really did something bad, whatever it is.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "disapprove of something", ensure the object of disapproval is clearly stated to avoid ambiguity. For instance, instead of saying "I disapprove", specify "I disapprove of the new policy".

Common error

Avoid using "disapprove of" vaguely. Always clarify what you disapprove of to ensure your message is clear and direct. For example, specify "I disapprove of the decision" rather than simply saying "I disapprove".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "disapprove of something" functions as a verb phrase, indicating a negative evaluation or lack of approval towards a specific action, idea, or behavior. It clearly expresses a subjective judgment. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable nature.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "disapprove of something" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase to express a negative opinion or lack of approval. Ludwig AI validates its correct usage. It appears frequently in news, scientific, and general contexts. When using this phrase, ensure clarity by specifying the object of disapproval. Alternatives include "object to something" and "frown upon something". The phrase carries a neutral tone appropriate for various professional communication contexts. Remember to always clarify what you are disapproving of for clear and direct communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be against something

Indicates opposition to a plan, idea, or activity.

object to something

Replaces "disapprove" with "object", emphasizing a formal expression of disagreement.

find something unacceptable

Directly states that something is not tolerable or permissible.

not be in favor of something

Indicates a lack of support or approval for something.

take exception to something

Indicates a strong disagreement or feeling offended by something.

reject something

Suggests a conscious decision not to accept something.

frown upon something

Suggests disapproval, often based on moral or social grounds.

decline to endorse something

Indicates a refusal to officially support or approve something.

look askance at something

Implies a skeptical or disapproving view of something.

have a low opinion of something

Expresses a negative evaluation or judgment about something.

FAQs

How can I use "disapprove of something" in a sentence?

You can use "disapprove of something" to express disagreement or a negative judgment about a particular action, idea, or behavior. For example: "Many parents "disapprove of something" the new school policy".

What are some alternatives to "disapprove of something"?

Alternatives include "object to something", "take exception to something", or "frown upon something", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "disapprove something" or "disapprove of something"?

The correct and more common usage is "disapprove of something". The preposition "of" is necessary to connect the verb "disapprove" with the object of disapproval.

What's the difference between "disapprove of something" and "criticize something"?

"Disapprove of something" generally indicates a feeling or judgment of disagreement, while "criticize something" /s/criticize+something involves expressing specific faults or negative aspects. You can "disapprove of something" without verbalizing it, but to criticize usually means to voice your disapproval or negative assessment.