# distaste

/dɪˈsteɪst/ (US) · /dɪstˈeɪst/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/distaste
Updated: 2026-05-19

## Definition

a feeling of not liking or being upset by something. It is a more formal and slightly older word than 'dislike'.

For teachers: a feeling of aversion or lack of pleasure toward something. Often used in formal or literary contexts to describe a mild but definite sense of disapproval.

## Examples

- He showed no distaste for the difficult work.
- The committee expressed a general distaste for the proposal, though they did not vote against it.
- Despite his distaste for the political climate, he remained in the city to ensure the transition of power was completed without further violence.

---

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.