Definition

Verb: - To return an accusation against someone; to accuse in return, especially in response to a similar accusation. - To engage in mutual accusations; to exchange charges or counter-charges.

Usage

The verb "recriminate" describes the act of responding to an accusation by making a counter-accusation. It is typically used in contexts of conflict, argument, or blame, where one party responds to criticism by criticizing the other in return. It often implies a cycle of blame.

Examples

• During the argument, instead of apologizing, he chose to recriminate, blaming her for starting the conflict.
• The two nations continued to recriminate against each other for the breakdown of the peace talks.
• When confronted about the missing funds, the manager recriminated by pointing out his colleague's past errors.

Advanced Usage

• "To recriminate against": This is a common construction, though the preposition "against" is sometimes omitted.
  • The opposition leader was quick to recriminate against the government's allegations.
• The action is often mutual, leading to the noun form "recrimination."
  • The meeting devolved into bitter recriminations.

Variants and Related Words

• Recrimination (noun): The act of recriminating; a counter-accusation.
  • The debate was filled with personal recriminations.
• Recriminatory (adjective): Having the character of a recrimination.
  • He made a series of recriminatory remarks.

Synonyms

• Countercharge: To make a charge in return.
• Retaliate: To return like for like, especially evil for evil (broader than, but can include, verbal accusations).
• Retort: To answer back, often sharply or wittily (can be a specific type of verbal recrimination).

Antonyms

• Absolve: To set free from blame or obligation.
• Acquit: To declare not guilty.
• Accept blame: To admit fault without counter-accusing.

Notes

"Recriminate" is a formal word most commonly found in written English, legal contexts, or descriptions of serious disputes. It focuses specifically on the exchange of accusations and is less common in everyday casual speech.

Verb

1. return an accusation against someone or engage in mutual accusations; charge in return