Thesaurus

reproach

Q: How does the verb 'reproach' contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of reproach are admonish , chide , rebuke , reprimand , and reprove . While all these words mean "to criticize adversely," reproach and chide suggest displeasure or disappointment expressed in mild reproof or scolding. // reproached him for tardiness // chided by their mother for untidiness

Q: In what contexts can 'admonish' take the place of 'reproach'?

While the synonyms admonish and reproach are close in meaning, admonish suggests earnest or friendly warning and counsel. // admonished by my parents to control expenses

Q: When can 'rebuke' be used instead of 'reproach'?

The words rebuke and reproach are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, rebuke suggests a sharp or stern reproof. // the papal letter rebuked dissenting clerics

Q: When could 'reprimand' be used to replace 'reproach'?

Although the words reprimand and reproach have much in common, reprimand implies a severe, formal, often public or official rebuke. // reprimanded by the ethics committee

Q: Where would 'reprove' be a reasonable alternative to 'reproach'?

In some situations, the words reprove and reproach are roughly equivalent. However, reprove implies an often kindly intent to correct a fault. // gently reproved my table manners

noun

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Synonyms & Antonyms of reproach

(Entry 1 of 2)

1 a cause of shame

your public display of boorish behavior is a reproach to this entire school

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credit,
honor

2 an often public or formal expression of disapproval

a letter of reproach was added to her dossier

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3 the state of having lost the esteem of others

nothing the traitor did in later life lessened the reproach in which he was universally held

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scandal

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reproach

verb

Synonyms & Antonyms of reproach (Entry 2 of 2)

1 to criticize (someone) severely or angrily especially for personal failings

our neighbor loudly reproached us for tromping through his yard

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2 to criticize (someone) usually gently so as to correct a fault

she cleared her throat as a way of reproaching us for having our elbows on the table

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3 to express public or formal disapproval of

the governor reproached the legislature for failing to pass the budget on time and once again throwing the state into fiscal chaos

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Frequently Asked Questions About reproach

How does the verb reproach contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of reproach are admonish, chide, rebuke, reprimand, and reprove. While all these words mean "to criticize adversely," reproach and chide suggest displeasure or disappointment expressed in mild reproof or scolding.

reproached him for tardiness

chided by their mother for untidiness