utter disapproval

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "utter disapproval" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express a strong or complete sense of disapproval regarding a situation, action, or decision. Example: "The committee expressed its utter disapproval of the proposed changes to the policy."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

The only way Mrs. Kenward registered utter disapproval was by omission.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Not once did she utter a word of disapproval.

Huffington Post

"A satisfactory school …" The word "satisfactory" is uttered with a drawl of disapproval.

The Guardian

Medicine was young Jo's choice, its chief attraction being its utter unsuitability for a girl of her background: "When I encountered only argument and disapproval, my native stubbornness made me decide to study medicine at all costs and in spite of everyone".

The New York Times - Health

"Captain America: utter, utter, utter tosh".

Independent

Utter garbage!

The New Yorker

Utter madness.

The New York Times

A Chorus of Disapproval.

The New York Times - Arts

Utter frustration.

Independent

Utter nonsense!

The New York Times

(Murmurs of disapproval).

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "utter disapproval" when you want to emphasize the complete and unwavering nature of disagreement or condemnation. It's particularly effective in formal contexts or when conveying a sense of moral outrage.

Common error

Avoid using "utter disapproval" too frequently, as it can sound overly dramatic or hyperbolic. Consider milder alternatives like "strong disapproval" or simply "disapproval" when the situation doesn't warrant such emphatic language.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "utter disapproval" functions as a noun phrase expressing a strong negative sentiment. As Ludwig suggests, the use of the word 'utter' intensifies the feeling of disapproval. The examples show it being used to describe reactions to policies or actions.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "utter disapproval" is a grammatically sound phrase used to express a strong feeling of disagreement. According to Ludwig, the phrase is more on the formal side and it's not the most common way to express the idea. While grammatically correct and found in reputable news sources, its relative rarity suggests it's not an everyday expression. Consider alternatives like "complete disapproval" or "strong disapproval" depending on the context. When you want to emphasize how complete the disagreement is, then "utter disapproval" is appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

complete disapproval

Replaces "utter" with "complete", emphasizing the thoroughness of the disapproval.

total disapproval

Substitutes "utter" with "total", highlighting the all-encompassing nature of the disapproval.

unequivocal disapproval

Replaces "utter" with "unequivocal", indicating a clear and unambiguous expression of disapproval.

strong disapproval

Uses "strong" instead of "utter", conveying a significant level of disagreement.

deep disapproval

Employs "deep" to suggest a profound sense of disapproval.

marked disapproval

Indicates that the disapproval is noticeable or significant.

disapproval

A shorter and simpler version that expresses disagreement.

displeasure

A more formal term that shows lack of satisfaction.

objection

Expresses a formal reason for disagreeing.

dissent

Indicates disagreement, often in a formal or political context.

FAQs

How to use "utter disapproval" in a sentence?

You can use "utter disapproval" to describe a strong feeling of disagreement, for instance: "The proposed policy met with "utter disapproval" from the community."

What can I say instead of "utter disapproval"?

You can use alternatives like "complete disapproval", "strong disapproval" or simply "disapproval" depending on the context.

Is "utter disapproval" formal or informal?

"Utter disapproval" leans towards the formal side, suggesting a serious and significant level of disagreement. It is suitable for professional or academic writing rather than casual conversations.

What is the difference between "strong disapproval" and "utter disapproval"?

"Utter disapproval" is a stronger and more emphatic expression than "strong disapproval", suggesting a complete and unwavering lack of approval. "Strong disapproval" conveys significant disagreement, but it may not necessarily imply the same degree of totality.