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Disapproval Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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disapproval

[ˌdɪsəˈpruːvəl ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

expression of negative opinion

Disapproval is a strong feeling of dislike or disagreement with someone or something. It can be shown through facial expressions, body language, or verbal statements.

Synonyms

condemnation, disfavor, dissatisfaction.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
disapproval

Used when expressing a general lack of approval or agreement with something or someone.

  • She showed her disapproval by shaking her head.
  • His parents expressed their disapproval of his decision to drop out of college.
disfavor

Used when indicating that someone or something is no longer liked or supported. This term often implies a loss of approval that was once present.

  • After the scandal, the celebrity fell into disfavor with the public.
  • Her ideas were in disfavor with the board members.
dissatisfaction

Used when expressing a lack of satisfaction or contentment with a situation, service, or performance.

  • There was a growing dissatisfaction among the employees regarding the new policies.
  • He expressed his dissatisfaction with the meal by leaving a poor review.
condemnation

Used when expressing strong disapproval and critical judgment, often in a moral or legal context. This term carries a serious and negative connotation.

  • The politician faced widespread condemnation for his controversial remarks.
  • The court's condemnation of the criminal was swift and resolute.

Examples of usage

  • His disapproval was evident when he shook his head in disagreement.
  • She expressed her disapproval of the decision by refusing to participate.
  • The teacher's disapproval of the student's behavior was clear from her stern look.
  • I could sense my parents' disapproval of my career choice.
  • Despite the disapproval of her peers, she followed her own path.
Context #2 | Noun

official rejection

Disapproval can also refer to an official rejection or refusal to accept or approve something. This can be seen in formal contexts such as legal decisions or official reviews.

Synonyms

denial, non-approval, rejection.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
disapproval

Used to express an unfavorable opinion about something or someone. It often indicates a judgement or criticism.

  • She looked at his messy room with disapproval.
  • His parents showed their disapproval of his new girlfriend.
rejection

Used when something is not accepted or approved, often causing disappointment or hurt feelings. It often has a negative connotation.

  • Her application for the job faced rejection.
  • He felt a deep sense of rejection when his proposal was turned down.
denial

Used when someone refuses to accept or acknowledge something as true or valid. It can also refer to a refusal to grant a request.

  • His denial of the allegations only made things worse.
  • She is in denial about the seriousness of her illness.
non-approval

A formal way to indicate that permission or agreement for something has not been given. It is more neutral than 'disapproval'.

  • The application was returned due to non-approval by the committee.
  • Non-approval of this project means we need to rethink our strategy.

Examples of usage

  • The committee's disapproval of the proposal led to its rejection.
  • The disapproval of the budget by the board resulted in a revised plan.
  • His application for the permit faced disapproval from the authorities.
  • The disapproval of the contract by both parties led to negotiations.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Disapproval can affect a person's self-esteem, particularly in children who may seek affirmation from adults.
  • The social psychology of disapproval is linked to group dynamics, where negative feedback can reinforce conformity.
  • Disapproval, especially from authority figures, can lead to feelings of anxiety or rebellion in individuals.

Pop Culture

  • In films and literature, disapproval often drives character development, showcasing personal growth or conflict.
  • Reality shows thrive on the concept of disapproval, often featuring judges or audiences providing critical feedback.
  • Many songs express themes of disapproval in relationships, depicting struggles with acceptance and validation.

Literature

  • Classic novels often explore disapproval through characters who go against societal expectations, leading to conflict.
  • The theme of parental disapproval is prevalent in coming-of-age stories, illustrating the struggle for independence.
  • Writers frequently depict disapproval as a catalyst for change, pushing characters toward personal revelation or rebellion.

Cultural Perspectives

  • Different cultures have varied approaches to expressing disapproval; some may be direct, while others are more subtle.
  • In some societies, public disapproval can result in severe consequences, influencing social behaviors and norms.
  • Expressions of disapproval can also reflect cultural values, such as collectivism, where group harmony is prioritized over individual opinions.

Origin of 'disapproval'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the prefix 'dis-', meaning 'not', and 'approval', which means a positive judgment.
  • It first appeared in English in the late 16th century, reflecting a growing need to express negative opinions.
  • The roots of 'approval' trace back to Latin 'approbare', which means to approve or to test.

The word 'disapproval' originated from the prefix 'dis-' meaning 'apart, away' and the word 'approval', which comes from the Latin 'approbare' meaning 'to prove, approve'. The combination of these elements gives 'disapproval' its current meaning of expressing negative opinion or rejection.

See also: approval, approved, approver, approving, approvingly, disapprove, disapproved, disapproving, disapprovingly, unapproved.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #10,307, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.