WordGarden.iodisbelieve
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /dˌɪsbɪlˈiːv/
US
- /dɪsbəˈliv/
Meanings
Verb
to think that something is not true
Beyond the definition
If someone tells you a wild story about flying unicorns, you might disbelieve them—meaning you don't think it's true. It's more than just disagreeing; to disbelieve is to actively refuse to accept something as a fact. You can disbelieve a rumor, a claim, or an explanation someone gives you. Sometimes disbelief comes from a strong sense that something is wrong, and other times from a lack of proof. A detective might disbelieve a suspect's alibi, while a child might disbelieve their parents when told that the last cookie is already gone.
To disbelieve means to refuse to accept something as true; it's a stronger term than simply "not believe." While "not believing" can be passive—perhaps you're unsure or haven't yet formed an opinion—disbelieving implies an active rejection of the truthfulness of a statement, claim, or piece of evidence.
The context often matters. You might disbelieve a conspiracy theory because it lacks logical support. A scientist might disbelieve initial results from an experiment until they are verified through rigorous testing. A character in a story might even disbelieve good news, fearing it's too good to be true.
It's important to note that disbelieving isn't necessarily about being stubborn or closed-minded. It can stem from a rational assessment of information and a commitment to seeking the truth. However, strong disbelief can also lead to conflict, especially when deeply held beliefs are challenged. For example: "Despite the overwhelming evidence, he continued to disbelieve the reality of climate change." Or, "She disbelieved his promises after being repeatedly let down."
So, while believing is accepting something as true, disbelieving is the act of rejecting it—a powerful stance rooted in doubt, skepticism, or conviction.
Examples
- 1
Missing wallet
Many people disbelieved her when she said the wallet had been there a minute earlier.
- 2
Legal judgment
The judge disbelieved his excuse and fined him anyway.
- 3
Broken promises
After so many broken promises, I began to disbelieve anything he said.
- 4
Medical evidence
It was hard to disbelieve that something was seriously wrong once the test results came back.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Public warning
His warning was widely disbelieved until the storm finally arrived.
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
Contrast
Do not confuse
Used with (collocations)
- disbelieve a claim
- disbelieve someone's story
- find it hard to disbelieve
Word family
Explore
Forms and spellings
4 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- disbelieveverb
Forms
- disbelieving-ing formverb
- disbelievedpast tenseverb
- disbelievesverb