Definition

An action that causes harm or injury to someone or something, often by being unhelpful or unkind.

Example

Giving him that advice was a disservice to his career.

Conversation

I heard that ignoring the problem will only do a disservice to everyone involved.

That's so true; it just makes things worse in the long run.

Exactly! We need to address it openly instead.

Otherwise, we might end up causing more harm than good.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Disservice → It is formed from "dis-" (meaning apart or away) and "service" (from Latin "servitium", meaning to serve). The word "disservice" refers to an act that is detrimental or harmful, essentially serving someone poorly or causing them harm instead of help.

Memory Tip

Think of 'dis-' meaning apart or away, and 'service' meaning to serve. This helps you remember that a disservice is an act that serves someone poorly or causes them harm.

Visually Confused Words