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Synonym Chooser

How does the verb reprehend differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of reprehend are censure, condemn, criticize, denounce, and reprobate. While all these words mean "to find fault with openly," reprehend implies both criticism and severe rebuking.

reprehends the self-centeredness of today's students

Where would censure be a reasonable alternative to reprehend?

The synonyms censure and reprehend are sometimes interchangeable, but censure carries a strong suggestion of authority and of reprimanding.

a Senator formally censured by his peers

When would condemn be a good substitute for reprehend?

While in some cases nearly identical to reprehend, condemn usually suggests an unqualified and final unfavorable judgment.

condemned the government's racial policies

When can criticize be used instead of reprehend?

While the synonyms criticize and reprehend are close in meaning, criticize implies finding fault especially with methods or policies or intentions.

criticized the police for using violence

How are the words denounce and condemn related as synonyms of reprehend?

Denounce adds to condemn the implication of a public declaration.

a pastoral letter denouncing abortion

When is reprobate a more appropriate choice than reprehend?

The words reprobate and reprehend can be used in similar contexts, but reprobate implies strong disapproval or firm refusal to sanction.

reprobated his son's unconventional lifestyle

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of Synonyms for reprehend
Verb
  • The achievement was especially sweet for Spurs manager Ange Postecoglou, who has been widely criticized for the club’s Premier League performance this season.
    David Close, CNN Money, 22 May 2025
  • The decision also sparked fierce debate from religious conservatives who criticized one board member’s staunch opposition to introducing prayer.
    Nora O’Neill, Charlotte Observer, 22 May 2025
Verb
  • In discussing the Afrikaners, Trump will encourage Ramaphosa's government to condemn what the White House official described as incendiary rhetoric against them by politicians.
    Bart Jansen, USA Today, 22 May 2025
  • Consider: The United States voted with Russia and North Korea in February concerning a UN Resolution to condemn Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
    Ken Silverstein, Forbes.com, 21 May 2025
Verb
  • According to Reuters, many locals have blamed the sites for creating an unsustainable rental environment, reducing housing supply and making rent unaffordable for locals.
    Fernando Cervantes Jr, USA Today, 20 May 2025
  • Like with Michaels, HBO initially blamed Pilgrim for the accident, but later settled for £500,000 ($669,000), according to the stunt pro’s barrister.
    Jake Kanter, Deadline, 19 May 2025
Verb
  • But the prime minister’s recalcitrance on the subject of a future Palestinian state, long a Saudi condition, is being faulted as one of the reasons Israel is missing out on this opportunity.
    Dina Kraft, Christian Science Monitor, 14 May 2025
  • Even after the jury’s verdict, Kirk’s supporters continued to fault Luna, and the controversy took a political turn as a growing number of conservative accounts chimed in.
    Keri Blakinger, Los Angeles Times, 11 May 2025
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

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Cite this Entry

“Reprehend.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/reprehend. Accessed 25 May. 2025.

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