Disproof: meaning, definitions and examples

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disproof

 

[ dɪsˈpruːf ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

logic

Evidence or an argument that proves something to be false or incorrect.

Synonyms

contradiction, falsification, refutation.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
disproof

This term is often used in academia or science to indicate evidence that shows a theory or hypothesis is incorrect.

  • The scientist presented a clear disproof of the previous theory
refutation

Commonly used in debates or academic writing to systematically argue against a claim or theory, often providing strong evidence to support the counter-argument.

  • His refutation of the opposing argument was well-researched and compelling
contradiction

Best used in logic or argumentative speech when two statements or ideas are in direct opposition to one another. It's not necessarily negative but implies a logical inconsistency.

  • Her statements were in direct contradiction with the evidence presented
falsification

Mostly used in scientific contexts to describe the action of disproving a hypothesis or theory. It can have a negative connotation as it might suggest deceptive intent.

  • The data resulted in the falsification of the initial hypothesis

Examples of usage

  • The disproof of the theory led to a new understanding of the phenomenon.
  • She presented a compelling disproof of his hypothesis.
Context #2 | Noun

science

The act of proving a theory or hypothesis to be incorrect through experimentation or observation.

Synonyms

invalidation, negation, rejection.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
disproof

Used when referring to concrete evidence or logical argument that demonstrates something is not true.

  • The scientist's work served as a disproof of the prevailing theory
invalidation

Used in legal, technical, or formal contexts to indicate that something is no longer valid or acceptable.

  • The court's invalidation of the contract left both parties unsatisfied
rejection

Commonly used in everyday situations to describe the act of refusing or dismissing something or someone; can have a negative connotation.

  • Her rejection of the job offer surprised everyone
negation

Describes the act of denying something entirely, often used in philosophical or logical arguments.

  • The philosopher's statement was a clear negation of previous beliefs

Examples of usage

  • The disproof of the initial hypothesis opened up new research possibilities.
  • Scientists are constantly seeking disproof in order to refine their theories.

Translations

Translations of the word "disproof" in other languages:

🇵🇹 refutação

🇮🇳 खंडन

🇩🇪 Widerlegung

🇮🇩 sanggahan

🇺🇦 спростування

🇵🇱 obalenie

🇯🇵 反証 (はんしょう)

🇫🇷 réfutation

🇪🇸 refutación

🇹🇷 çürütme

🇰🇷 반증 (반박)

🇸🇦 تفنيد

🇨🇿 vyvrácení

🇸🇰 vyvrátenie

🇨🇳 反驳 (fǎnbó)

🇸🇮 ovržba

🇮🇸 afsönnun

🇰🇿 терістеу

🇬🇪 განხილვა

🇦🇿 təkzib

🇲🇽 refutación

Etymology

The word 'disproof' originated in the mid-16th century, derived from the prefix 'dis-' meaning 'opposite of' and 'proof' meaning 'evidence or argument'. It has been used primarily in the fields of logic and science to denote the act of disproving a theory or hypothesis. Over time, 'disproof' has become a key term in academic discourse, highlighting the importance of critical thinking and empirical evidence in the pursuit of knowledge.

See also: proof, proofread, proofreader, proofreading, reproof.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #32,490 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.