disagree
A2Pronunciation
UK
- /dˌɪsəɡrˈiː/
US
- /dɪsəˈɡri/
Description
- have a different opinion
- differ
- dissent
- oppose
Imagine you're building with LEGO bricks with a friend. You might disagree about what the final creation should be—maybe you want a spaceship, and they imagine a castle! To disagree simply means to hold an opinion that differs from another person's. It doesn't necessarily mean arguing; it just means seeing things differently. Sometimes disagreements are small, like choosing a movie. Other times, they can be about important issues. You might disagree with a politician's policies or with the way someone is treating someone else. It's a natural part of life and often leads to interesting conversations—or sometimes, polite avoidance!
To disagree means to hold an opinion that is different from someone else's. It's more than just not liking the same things; it implies a difference in belief, judgment, or perspective. You might disagree with a friend about which restaurant has the best pizza—a minor disagreement. But you could also disagree fundamentally with someone's values or principles, leading to a much deeper conflict.
The way we express disagreement can vary greatly. We can politely say, "I see your point, but I disagree," or more forcefully state, "I completely disagree!" Sometimes, disagreement is expressed through actions rather than words—like voting for different candidates in an election.
It's important to remember that disagreeing isn't inherently negative. Healthy debate and the ability to respectfully acknowledge differing viewpoints are crucial for growth and understanding. In fact, a story might feature characters who initially disagree, but through discussion and compromise, reach a better solution together. However, persistent or hostile disagreement can damage relationships and hinder progress.
In a more idiomatic sense, the word can also apply to your physical well-being. If a particular food or a specific climate "disagrees with you," it means it has a negative effect on your health or makes you feel unwell.
The word "disagreement" is the noun form—referring to the state of not being in accord. So, whether it's a simple difference of taste or a clash of ideologies, disagreeing is a fundamental part of human interaction, shaping our conversations, decisions, and understanding of the world around us.
Examples
- 1
Planning
I disagree with you about this plan.
- 2
Family rules
My parents disagree on how much screen time kids should have.
Pattern
disagree with + person; disagree on + topic
- 3
Labor dispute
The union disagreed with management over pay.
Pattern
disagree over + issue
disagree about a point of conflict
- 4
Medical decision
She disagreed with the decision and asked for a second opinion.
- 5
Medical policy
Some doctors disagree that the new rule will improve patient care.
Pattern
disagree that + clause
say that the statement is not true
- 6
Direct response
"We should cancel the trip." "I disagree."
- 7
Respectful disagreement
We can disagree without being disrespectful.
Forms and spellings
4 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- disagreeverb
Forms
- disagreedpast tenseverb
- disagreesverb
- disagreeing-ing formverb