What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
disprove
Example
The scientist was able to disprove the hypothesis with new data. [disprove: verb]
Example
The evidence presented in court was enough to disprove the defendant's alibi. [disprove: verb]
refute
Example
The expert was able to refute the claims made by the opposing lawyer. [refute: verb]
Example
The article refutes the common misconception that all sharks are dangerous. [refutes: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Refute is more commonly used than disprove in everyday language. Refute is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while disprove is less common and typically used in more specialized fields.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between disprove and refute?
Both disprove and refute are formal words that are typically used in academic or professional contexts. However, refute can also be used in informal contexts, while disprove is less commonly used in everyday language.
