What Does “Disagree with sb” Mean?
“Disagree with sb” means to have a different opinion or to not share the same views as someone else.
Introduction
The phrase “disagree with sb” is commonly used in English when two or more people do not see eye to eye on a topic. Understanding the disagree with sb meaning helps learners express opposition politely and clearly. It is a useful phrase for everyday conversations, debates, and discussions. Knowing how to use it correctly will improve your communication skills and help you show respect for different opinions. Whether in casual talks or formal settings, “disagree with sb” allows you to share your thoughts without causing offense.
Quick Info Box
- Phrasal verb: disagree with somebody
- Type: Intransitive
- Level: A2 – B1
- Short meaning: To have a different opinion from someone
Structure (Grammar Rules)
“Disagree with sb” is an inseparable phrasal verb. You cannot separate “disagree” and “with” by adding words between them.
Common sentence patterns:
- Subject + disagree with + object (person)
- Subject + disagree with + noun/pronoun (someone or something)
Example: I disagree with her. They disagree with the decision.
How to Use “Disagree with sb”?
Use “disagree with sb” when you want to express that your opinion differs from another person’s opinion. It is often followed by a person or group.
You can also use it with ideas, decisions, or statements by including the noun or pronoun after “with”. For example, disagree with a fact or disagree with the proposal.
This phrase is polite and formal enough to use in professional or casual settings.
Examples
- I disagree with my boss about the project’s timeline.
- She disagrees with her friends on politics.
- Do you ever disagree with your teachers?
- We disagree with the new policy because it is unfair.
- He disagreed with me in the meeting yesterday.
Common Mistakes
- Incorrect: I disagree her.
Correct: I disagree with her. - Incorrect: She disagreed to the plan.
Correct: She disagreed with the plan. - Incorrect: They disagree on me.
Correct: They disagree with me.
Differences / Synonyms
Similar phrases include “disagree about” and “disagree on,” but “disagree with sb” specifically refers to people or their opinions.
- Disagree about/on: Used when talking about topics or subjects. Example: We disagree about the best way to solve the problem.
- Disagree with sb: Focuses on disagreeing with a person or their point of view. Example: I disagree with John.
- Oppose: Stronger than disagree, often used in formal or political contexts.
Common Collocations
- Disagree with someone’s opinion
- Disagree with a decision
- Disagree with a statement
- Disagree with a rule
- Disagree with a policy
Related Phrasal Verbs
Here are related phrasal verbs of disagree with sb:
Real-life Dialogue
Anna: I think we should start the project next week.
Mark: I disagree with you. I believe we need more time to prepare.
Anna: That’s a good point. Maybe we can discuss it with the team.
Practice
Choose the correct sentence:
- a) I disagree the manager.
- b) I disagree with the manager.
- c) I disagree to the manager.
Answer: b) I disagree with the manager.
FAQs
- Q: Can I use “disagree with” for things as well as people?
A: Yes, you can disagree with ideas, decisions, or statements, not just people. - Q: Is “disagree with sb” formal or informal?
A: It is neutral and can be used in both formal and informal situations. - Q: Can I say “disagree to sb”?
A: No, the correct preposition is “with,” not “to.” - Q: What is the difference between “disagree with” and “disagree about”?
A: “Disagree with” focuses on people or their opinions, while “disagree about” relates to topics or subjects. - Q: Can “disagree with” be used in questions?
A: Yes, for example, “Do you disagree with me?”
