What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
disbelieve
Example
I disbelieve the conspiracy theory because there is no evidence to support it. [disbelieve: verb]
Example
Her disbelieving expression showed that she did not trust his explanation. [disbelieving: adjective]
unbelief
Example
His unbelief in God led him to become an atheist. [unbelief: noun]
Example
The scientist's unbelief in the supernatural made her skeptical of claims of paranormal activity. [unbelief: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Disbelieve is more common in everyday language than unbelief, which is more often used in a religious or spiritual context.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between disbelieve and unbelief?
Unbelief is more formal than disbelieve, which is more casual and informal.
