Disprove, refute, confute, rebut, controvert mean to show or attempt to show by argument that a statement, a claim, a proposition, or a charge is not true.
Disprove stresses the success of an argument in showing the falsity, erroneousness, or invalidity of what is attacked.
Refute stresses the method more than the effect of argument in disproof; it therefore is preferred to disprove when one wishes to convey implications of the adducing of evidence, of a bringing forward of witnesses, experts, or authorities, and of close reasoning.
It connotes an elaboration of arguments not present in disprove.
Confute emphasizes a destruction of arguments or a reducing to silence of opponents by clearly revealing the falsity or the untenability of the points which have been made; the term usually implies refutation, but it may also suggest such methods as denunciation and sarcasm.
Rebut differs from refute, its closest synonym, in suggesting greater formality of method (as that used in organized debate or in courts of law).
Although its aim is disproof of an opponent’s contentions, the term does not necessarily imply the achievement of one’s end, but it does suggest the offering of argument, evidence, or testimony given in support of the other side.
Controvert usually carries a dual implication of denying or contradicting a statement, proposition, or doctrine, or a set of these, and of refuting or attempting to refute it. It does not necessarily suggest disproof but it does connote a valiant effort to achieve that end.