accusing
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Adjective: 1. Containing or expressing an accusation: Describing a look, tone, or statement that directly or indirectly blames someone for a fault or wrongdoing. 2. Suggesting blame or censure: Conveying a sense that someone is being charged with an offense, often through non-verbal means like a glance or gesture.
Usage
The adjective "accusing" is used to describe a manner, expression, or tone that assigns blame. It typically modifies nouns related to communication or appearance (e.g., glare, look, tone, finger, voice). It describes how something is done, not the act of accusation itself.
Examples
- Adjective:
- She gave him an accusing look when he arrived late. (Her look expressed blame for his lateness.)
- His voice was quiet but accusing. (His tone of voice suggested he was blaming the listener.)
- The report stopped short of making an accusing statement. (The report avoided language that directly blamed anyone.)
Advanced Usage
- "in an accusing tone/manner": Using a vocal quality or way of speaking that implies blame.
- "Where were you?" she asked in an accusing tone.
- The word often carries a strong emotional charge and can describe non-verbal communication powerfully.
Variants and Related Words
- Accuse (verb): To charge someone with an offense or fault.
- They accuse him of theft.
- Accusation (noun): A charge or claim that someone has done something wrong.
- He denied the accusation.
- Accusatory (adjective): Very similar in meaning to "accusing," often used interchangeably.
- an accusatory remark
Synonyms
- Blaming: Assigning responsibility for a fault.
- Censorious: Severely critical.
- Condemnatory: Expressing strong disapproval.
Antonyms
- Absolving: Declaring someone free from blame.
- Exonerating: Officially absolving from blame.
- Complimentary: Expressing praise or approval.
Adjective
- containing or expressing accusation
- an accusitive forefinger
- black accusatory looks
- accusive shoes and telltale trousers- O.Henry
- his accusing glare