rebuke
/ri'bju:k/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
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.
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
- an act or expression of criticism and censure
- he had to take the rebuke with a smile on his face
Verb
- 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