expression of disapproval

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "expression of disapproval" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing someone's negative reaction or judgment towards a particular action, behavior, or idea. Example: "Her expression of disapproval was evident when she heard about the decision to cut funding for the arts program."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

18 human-written examples

The expression of disapproval being the Internet's chief stock in trade, it has now filled that gap.

The New Yorker

When thrown at someone, particularly if it's rotten, the egg is a potent expression of disapproval.

Britannica

A reprimand vote is an expression of disapproval, but is not considered discipline and does not carry any consequences.

The Washington Post

She had no idea what we were discussing, but this sweet-looking woman sticking out her tongue was the ultimate expression of disapproval.

The New York Times - Magazine

Although these ratings are costless and payoff neutral, results show that expression of disapproval facilitates coordination on the most efficient equilibrium.

Journal of Economic Behavior & Organization

In a rare public expression of disapproval, Paul Netherton, assistant chief constable of Devon and Cornwall Police, claimed that the girl had been held in police custody for two days because there were "no beds available".

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

42 human-written examples

Bystanders in the workplace can defuse harassing or offensive language or situations with humor, she said, or verbal or nonverbal expressions of disapproval.

Harvard Business Review

It is right to be furious at Assad and his backers, but expressions of disapproval, no matter how vehement, will not change this horrific reality.

The Washington Post

The government did not say that Scientology was the reason, but it was implicit in the expressions of disapproval by individual ministers.

The Guardian

However, several days before Mr. Jackson arrived Sunday, Mr. Jammeh announced a moratorium on the executions, after expressions of disapproval from the European Union, the United Nations and other international groups.

The New York Times

To increase the speed of his swing, the Yankee third baseman Graig Nettles once hollowed out the barrel of his bat and filled it with Superballs, a stunt that still draws guffaws rather than somber expressions of disapproval.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "expression of disapproval", consider the audience and context to ensure the level of formality is appropriate. More informal situations might benefit from simpler language.

Common error

Avoid using "expression of disapproval" in casual conversation; it may sound overly stiff or unnatural. Opt for more relaxed alternatives like "they didn't like it" or "they showed they disagreed."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "expression of disapproval" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes the act or instance of conveying disagreement or negative sentiment, as seen in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Encyclopedias

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "expression of disapproval" is a grammatically sound and commonly used phrase, as confirmed by Ludwig. It functions as a noun phrase to describe a demonstration of disagreement, with a neutral tone suitable for formal or objective reporting. While commonly found in news and media, it's less frequent in casual conversation where simpler alternatives are preferable. Remember to consider the context and audience when choosing this phrase to ensure the appropriate level of formality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

show of disapproval

A more general term indicating any kind of demonstration of disagreement.

sign of disapproval

Emphasizes a visible or noticeable indication of disagreement.

gesture of disapproval

Focuses on a specific action or signal indicating disagreement.

voice of disapproval

Highlights a vocalized or articulated disagreement.

act of disapproval

Stresses a specific action undertaken to show disagreement.

feeling of disapproval

Highlights an internal emotion or sentiment of disagreement.

criticism

A more direct and explicit expression of disagreement or fault-finding.

objection

A formal expression of opposition or disagreement.

censure

A strong, formal expression of disapproval or condemnation.

reproach

Implies mild criticism or rebuke.

FAQs

How can I use "expression of disapproval" in a sentence?

You can use "expression of disapproval" to describe someone's negative reaction. For instance, "Her "expression of disapproval" was clear when she heard the news."

What's a less formal way to say "expression of disapproval"?

Alternatives include "show of dislike", "sign of disagreement", or simply "disapproval" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "expression of disapproval"?

It's suitable for formal writing, news reports, or situations where you want to maintain a neutral or objective tone. In casual settings, simpler alternatives are preferred.

How does "expression of disapproval" differ from "disagreement"?

"Disagreement" is a more general term, while ""expression of disapproval"" implies a visible or communicated manifestation of that disagreement.