What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
disprove
Example
The experiment was conducted to disprove the theory that all swans are white. [disprove: verb]
Example
The results of the study were able to disprove the previous assumptions about the disease. [disprove: verb]
deny
Example
He denied any involvement in the crime. [deny: verb]
Example
The company denied access to the confidential files. [deny: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Deny is more commonly used than disprove in everyday language. Deny is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while disprove is less common and is typically used in scientific or academic contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between disprove and deny?
While disprove is typically associated with a formal and academic tone, deny is more versatile and can be employed in both formal and informal contexts.