désapprendre
/de.za.pʁɑ̃dʁ/
The English phrase "to unlearn" is translated into French as désapprendre.
désapprendre is used to describe the process of breaking a habit.
Meaning: to break a habit (verb)
What does it mean word for word?
The verb consists of the prefix dés-, which functions as a negation or reversal similar to the English prefix "un-".
Which one should you use?
While désapprendre is the direct counterpart to apprendre (to learn), native speakers might also use se défaire de (to rid oneself of) or déconstruire (to deconstruct) when referring specifically to nuances of bad habits.
How does it change in a sentence?
désapprendre is a regular -re verb, which means it follows the same conjugation patterns as the verb apprendre.
How do you pronounce it?
/de.za.pʁɑ̃dʁ/. It has 3 syllables.
Did you know?
- While désapprendre is used for concepts, French speakers often use the phrase se déprogrammer to describe unlearning deeply ingrained social or mental patterns, as if the brain were a computer.
- The word apprendre can mean both 'to learn' and 'to teach', meaning that désapprendre carries the ghostly linguistic shadow of 'un-teaching' in its roots.
- In modern French sociological discussions, désapprendre is a key term used to describe the process of 'deconstructing' social prejudices and systemic biases.
Examples in context
- Le principal but de l'éducation n'est pas d'apprendre des choses, non, le but principal de l'éducation est de désapprendre des choses.The chief object of education is not to learn things, nay, the chief object of education is to unlearn things.This sentence illustrates how désapprendre can be used in the context of the purpose of education.Tatoeba #418759 by Scott, translation #410292 by Scott
- Il est nécessaire d'oublier les anciennes méthodes pour adopter une nouvelle approche.It is necessary to forget the old methods to adopt a new approach.
- Je dois désapprendre ce mauvais réflexe.I need to unlearn this bad habit.
- Il est difficile de désapprendre une habitude quotidienne.It is difficult to unlearn a daily habit.
Example conversation
Manon and Hugo are talking about their driving habits.
- ManonJe conduis mal, je dois tout désapprendre.I drive poorly, I have to unlearn everything.
- HugoC'est vrai, Hugo peut t'aider.It's true, Hugo can help you.
- ManonMerci, Hugo, tu es très gentil.Thank you, Hugo, you are very kind.
- HugoAvec plaisir, Manon !My pleasure, Manon!
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry désapprendre, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
