# disprove

/dɪsˈpɹuv/ (US) · /dɪspɹˈuːv/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/disprove
Updated: 2026-05-18

## Definition

to show that something is not true or correct. You use this when you have evidence that contradicts a statement or a theory.

For teachers: to demonstrate that a statement, theory, or belief is false or invalid. Transitive — requires a direct object representing the claim being refuted.

## Examples

- The new evidence helps to disprove the old theory.
- Scientists conducted a series of experiments to disprove the hypothesis that the plant could survive without sunlight.
- While the initial data suggested a correlation, subsequent peer-reviewed research was able to disprove the link between the two variables, leading to a complete revision of the original model.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.