Synonyms of reproach

reproach

noun

ri-ˈprōch 

1

as in disgrace

a cause of shame

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

Synonyms & Similar Words

• disgrace
• scandal
• reflection
• stain
• dishonor
• opprobrium
• stigma
• taint
• blot
• slur
• smirch
• brand
• spot

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• credit
• honor
• pride
• glory
• treasure
• boast
• jewel

2

as in condemnation

an often public or formal expression of disapproval

a letter of reproach was added to her dossier

Synonyms & Similar Words

• condemnation
• reprimand
• censure
• rebuke
• reproof
• denunciation
• criticism
• punishment
• excoriation
• stricture
• commination
• riot act
• lecture
• chastisement
• castigation
• remonstrance
• admonishment
• damnation
• admonition
• objurgation
• lesson
• scolding
• disparagement
• lash
• depreciation
• talking-to
• pan
• tongue-lashing
• belittlement
• deprecation
• rap
• dressing-down
• devil
• business

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• commendation
• endorsement
• citation
• tribute
• honor
• praise
• acclamation
• approval
• encomium
• panegyric
• sanction
• eulogy
• blessing
• plaudit(s)

3

as in shame

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

Synonyms & Similar Words

• shame
• disgrace
• contempt
• ignominy
• humiliation
• dishonor
• disrepute
• odium
• disdain
• obloquy
• infamy
• discredit
• stigma
• opprobrium
• disesteem
• scorn
• taint
• scandal
• disapproval
• stain
• disapprobation
• despite
• abasement
• dust
• degradation
• debasement
• blot
• deprecation
• slur
• brand
• disfavor
• debasing
• shadow
• smirch
• humbling
• spot

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• respect
• esteem
• honor
• regard
• fear
• admiration
• estimation
• appreciation
• reverence
• glory
• fame
• awe
• repute
• renown

Synonym Chooser

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

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

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

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

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

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of reproach

Meanwhile, the rest of America’s wealthy Epstein cabal continue to float above reproach, and reckoning. —Lorraine Ali, Los Angeles Times, 19 Feb. 2026

The maximalism and somewhat uncompromising presumption of a newspaper, with its warren of sections and columns and byways, is a quiet reproach to its audience’s most parochial instincts. —Becca Rothfeld, New Yorker, 10 Feb. 2026

Keep yourself above reproach for the next week to avoid getting tarnished by association. —Magi Helena, Dallas Morning News, 6 Feb. 2026

Willander’s tools are beyond reproach. —Harman Dayal, New York Times, 2 Feb. 2026