Definition

Noun: 1. The act of expressing disapproval or criticism; a rebuke or reprimand. An expression of blame or censure, often intended to correct behavior.

Usage

• Reproval is a formal noun used to describe the act of criticizing or blaming someone for their actions, typically with the aim of correction.
• It often refers to a verbal expression of disapproval.
• It is commonly used with verbs like "express," "receive," "meet with," or "deserve."

Examples

• The child's loud tantrum in the restaurant drew a quiet but firm reproval from her father.
• His careless mistake at work was met with severe reproval from his supervisor.
• She felt a pang of guilt, knowing her actions deserved reproval.

Advanced Usage

• "a word/moment of reproval": A brief instance of criticism or censure.
  • He received only a word of reproval for his minor error.
• "beyond reproval": So good or correct that it cannot be criticized (a formal and less common variant of "beyond reproach").
  • Her conduct during the crisis was beyond reproval.

Variants and Related Words

• Reprove (verb): To criticize or correct someone, usually gently or kindly.
  • The teacher reproved the student for talking during the exam.
• Reproving (adjective): Expressing criticism or disapproval.
  • She gave him a reproving look.
• Reproof (noun): A synonym for reproval, meaning an expression of blame or disapproval.
  • His report was a stern reproof of the company's policies.

Synonyms

• Rebuke: A sharp, stern, or formal expression of disapproval.
• Reprimand: An official or formal rebuke, especially from someone in authority.
• Censure: Strong criticism or official disapproval.
• Admonition: Gentle or friendly criticism or warning.
• Criticism: The act of expressing disapproval of someone or something based on perceived faults.

Antonyms

• Praise: The expression of approval or admiration.
• Commendation: Formal or official praise.
• Approval: The belief that someone or something is good or acceptable.
• Endorsement: An act of giving one's public support or approval.

Noun

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