To disapprove means to have a negative opinion about something or to judge it as wrong or unacceptable. When your parents disapprove of you staying up late on school nights, they think it's a bad idea. When a teacher disapproves of students talking during a test, she believes that behavior breaks important rules.

Disapproval often shows up in people's expressions and tone of voice. You might notice disapproving looks: a frown, raised eyebrows, or crossed arms. Someone might shake their head in disapproval or use a stern voice to show they don't approve.

The word carries a sense of judgment or criticism. If your friend disapproves of your choice to quit the soccer team, she thinks you're making the wrong decision. When a community disapproves of a new policy, people believe it's unfair or misguided.

Disapproval sits between mild concern and serious anger. It's stronger than simply disagreeing but less intense than being furious. A parent might disapprove of messy rooms without being truly upset. A principal might disapprove of gum chewing in school without treating it as a major offense.

The opposite of disapprove is approve, which means to accept something as good or right. Understanding what people approve and disapprove of can help you navigate social situations and decide when to consider others' judgments and when to trust your own.