# frown on

CEFR B2 · Phrasal verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/frown-on
Updated: 2026-04-24

## Definition

to disapprove of something or think it is a bad idea. You use this when people generally think a behavior is not acceptable.

For teachers: to disapprove of something; to view a particular action or behavior with disfavor. This phrasal verb is typically used in the passive voice to describe social norms or institutional policies.

## Examples

- The company frowns on personal phone calls during work hours.
- In many traditional offices, wearing casual clothes like jeans is still frowned on by the senior management.
- While not strictly illegal, the practice of aggressive tax avoidance is increasingly frowned on by both the public and regulatory bodies.

## Pitfalls

- Not "The teacher frowned at the cheating." but "The teacher frowned on the cheating." — 'frown at' describes a physical facial expression directed at someone, while 'frown on' describes a general attitude of disapproval.

## Usage notes

- often used in the passive voice ('is frowned on') to describe a general social or professional rule.
- Teaching tip: point out that while 'frown' is a physical action, 'frown on' is figurative; it is a useful alternative to 'disapprove of' for discussing social etiquette.

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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.