Definition

1. Noun:

   • An expression of sharp disapproval or criticism: A rebuke is a formal or stern reprimand, often given to correct behavior or express strong disapproval.
   • The act of reprimanding: The action of speaking to someone severely about their fault.

2. Verb:

   • To express sharp disapproval or criticism of (someone) because of their behavior or actions: To reprimand or scold someone sternly.
   • To censure severely or angrily: To criticize someone in a sharp and often angry manner.

Usage Examples

• Noun:

  • The manager's stern rebuke made the employee reconsider his approach.
  • She accepted the rebuke for her mistake without argument.

• Verb:

  • The teacher rebuked the student for talking during the exam.
  • He was rebuked by his colleagues for his unprofessional comments.

Advanced Usage

• "to administer/deliver a rebuke": to give a formal reprimand.

  • The committee delivered a sharp rebuke to the company for its environmental practices.

• "a stinging/scathing rebuke": a very severe or harsh criticism.

  • The editorial was a scathing rebuke of the government's new policy.

• "to rebuke someone for something": the standard construction for the verb.

  • The coach rebuked the player for a lack of effort.

Variants and Related Words

• Rebuker (n): A person who rebukes.

  • He was known as a stern rebuker of laziness.

• Rebuking (adj/gerund): The act of giving a rebuke; serving to rebuke.

  • She gave him a rebuking glance. (adj)
  • His constant rebuking created a tense atmosphere. (gerund)

Synonyms

• Reprimand: A formal expression of disapproval.
• Reproach: To express disapproval or disappointment.
• Admonish: To warn or reprimand someone firmly.
• Chide: To scold or rebuke mildly.
• Censure: To express severe disapproval, often formally.

Antonyms

• Praise: To express warm approval or admiration.
• Commend: To praise formally or officially.
• Applaud: To show approval or praise by clapping or spoken approval.

Related Phrases

• Without rebuke: Blameless, without fault (archaic/literary usage).

  • He lived a life without rebuke.

• A word of rebuke: A critical or disapproving remark.

  • She offered a word of rebuke about his careless attitude.

Noun

1. an act or expression of criticism and censure
   • he had to take the rebuke with a smile on his face

Verb

1. censure severely or angrily
   • The mother scolded the child for entering a stranger's car
   • The deputy ragged the Prime Minister
   • The customer dressed down the waiter for bringing cold soup