denounce

criticize, reprehend, censure, reprobate, condemn, denounce mean to find fault with openly. criticize implies finding fault especially with methods or policies or intentions.

• • criticized the police for using violence

reprehend implies both criticism and severe rebuking.

• • reprehends the self-centeredness of today's students

censure carries a strong suggestion of authority and of reprimanding.

• • a Senator formally censured by his peers

reprobate implies strong disapproval or firm refusal to sanction.

• • reprobated his son's unconventional lifestyle

condemn usually suggests an unqualified and final unfavorable judgment.

• • condemned the government's racial policies

denounce adds to condemn the implication of a public declaration.

• • a pastoral letter denouncing abortion