Definition

To correct someone's misunderstanding or false belief about something.

Example

I need to disabuse you of the idea that success comes without hard work.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I heard some rumors about our new neighbor, and they don't seem right.

Really? What have you heard?

I think I need to disabuse you of those ideas; he's actually really nice.

Oh, that's good to know! I’m glad he's not what people say.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Disabuse → It is formed from "dis-" (meaning apart or away) and "abusus" (from Latin, meaning to misuse). The word means to free someone from a misconception or to correct a misunderstanding, effectively taking away a misuse of belief.

Memory Tip

Think of 'dis-' meaning to take away and 'abuse' meaning misuse — so disabuse means to take away a misunderstanding.

Visually Confused Words