Meaning & Definition of word "Disallow"

Disallow

/ˌdɪs.əˈlaʊ/

verb:

  • 1. To refuse to allow something; to prohibit or reject.
    • Example: The committee will disallow any changes to the proposed budget.
  • 2. To not accept a claim or proposal as valid or legitimate.
    • Example: Her application was disallowed due to incomplete information.
  • 3. To deny permission or the right to do something.
    • Example: The school disallows students from using cell phones during class.
  • 4. To make something invalid, especially in terms of rules or regulations.
    • Example: The referee decided to disallow the goal because of a foul.
  • 5. To reject an allowance or exception to a general rule.
    • Example: They disallowed her request for an extension on the deadline.

Etymology

From Middle English disalowe, from Old French desaloier, from des- + alouer (to allow).

Common Phrases and Expressions

disallow a claim:

To reject a claim or assertion.

disallowed transaction:

A transaction that has been invalidated or rejected.

disallow evidence:

To refuse to admit a piece of evidence in a legal context.

Related Words

allow:

To give permission for something.

approve:

To agree to or accept something.

license:

To give official permission to do something.

Slang Meanings of disallow

Meaning: To shut down

Example Sentence: They totally disallowed my idea during the meeting.

Meaning: To nix

Example Sentence: The boss disallowed that plan right off the bat.