Definition

1. Verb:
   • To express disapproval, criticism, or correction to someone for a fault or misdeed, typically in a formal, stern, or earnest manner. It implies a rebuke intended to correct or improve behavior.

Examples of Usage

• Verb:
  • The teacher had to reprove the student for talking during the exam.
  • She gently reproved her colleague for the careless mistake in the report.
  • He was reproved by the committee for his unprofessional conduct.

Advanced Usage

• "to reprove someone for something": This is the most common construction, specifying both the person being corrected and the reason for the correction.

  • The manager reproved the team for missing the deadline.

• Formal/Archaic Use: In older or very formal texts, "reprove" can sometimes imply disproving or refuting an argument, but this usage is now rare. The primary modern meaning is related to expressing moral or behavioral disapproval.

Variants and Related Words

• Reproof (n): The act of reproving or an expression of disapproval; a rebuke.

  • He received a stern reproof from his supervisor.

• Reproving (adj): Expressing reproof or disapproval.

  • She gave him a reproving look.

• Reprover (n): A person who reproves (less common).

Synonyms

• Admonish: To warn or reprimand someone firmly, often with an intent to advise.
• Rebuke: To express sharp, stern disapproval.
• Reprimand: A formal, official, or severe rebuke.
• Chide: To scold or reproach 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 expressed approval.

Related Phrases/Idioms

• A word of reproof: A remark that criticizes or corrects.
  • She offered a quiet word of reproof about his manners.

(Note: "Reprove" is not commonly used to form standard phrasal verbs. Its usage is typically direct: "reprove someone".)

Verb

1. take to task
   • He admonished the child for his bad behavior