To disagree means to have a different opinion or belief from someone else. When you disagree with your friend about which movie to watch, you think one choice is better while they prefer another. When scientists disagree about a theory, they've examined the same evidence but reached different conclusions.

Disagreeing doesn't mean arguing or being unkind. You can disagree respectfully by explaining your perspective while listening to theirs. Two teammates might disagree about the best strategy for winning a game, and both views could have merit. A student might disagree with an author's conclusion in a book, or a family might disagree about where to go on vacation.

The word can also describe things that don't match up. If two witnesses give accounts that disagree, their stories contradict each other. If a certain food disagrees with you, it upsets your stomach.

Learning to disagree well is an important skill. Strong friendships and productive teams can handle disagreement because people focus on ideas rather than attacking each other. When you disagree thoughtfully, you may discover something new or reach a better solution than either person had alone.