1 B1 idiomatic neutral
To disapprove of a behaviour or practice, considering it wrong, inappropriate, or undesirable.
"In many offices, using your phone during meetings is frowned on."
inseparable
frown on
B1 neutral inseparable transitive
To regard a behaviour, action, or practice with disapproval; to consider something socially or morally unacceptable.
In plain English
To think something is wrong or bad, especially a behaviour, and not approve of it.
What does "frown on" mean?
One main meaning — here's how to use it.
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
To direct a frown downward upon something — the literal origin helps explain the idiomatic sense of looking down on something with disapproval.
Actually means
To think something is wrong or bad, especially a behaviour, and not approve of it.
Usage tip
Very commonly used to describe social norms, institutional attitudes, or personal disapproval. Often used in the passive ('it is frowned on'). Interchangeable with 'frown upon', though 'upon' is slightly more formal.
Words that pair with "frown on"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
behaviour practice habit attitude use of relationships
How to conjugate "frown on"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
frown on
I/you/we/they
3rd person
frowns on
he/she/it
Past simple
frowned on
yesterday
Past participle
frowned on
have + pp
-ing form
frowning on
continuous
Hear "frown on" in the wild
Listen to native speakers using "frown on" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
Other ways to say "frown on"
Swap in when you want variety — tap a linked one to explore it.
Keep exploring
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