a direct censure

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a direct censure" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a clear and explicit expression of disapproval or criticism towards someone or something. Example: "The committee issued a direct censure of the policy due to its negative impact on the community."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

Nor have the powerful politicians who fronted the flawed Vote Leave campaign faced direct censure, even as the country is rocked by the tumultuous fallout from a vote that is now known to be flawed.

The Guardian

"I seem to be the subject of serious allegations which lack foundation," he said.. Members of the dominant Conservative Party opposed the direct censure of Mr. Murdoch, while members of the Liberal Democrat junior coalition partner joined the Labor opposition in supporting the censure.

The New York Times

Republican leaders have the authority to bring up the impeachment resolution in a way that would permit a direct vote on censure.

The New York Times

She writes that Carr-directed censure stems from the idea of a satirist violating the trust that has been placed in them: "If anything blunts satire's weapon, it's being accused of the exact same thing you're lampooning". She continues: "Is Jimmy Carr behaving immorally by avoiding taxes, or simply being canny and frankly it's none of our beeswax?

BBC

Six months later, having directed his censure against the regent himself, he was arrested and sent to the Bastille.

The Guardian - Books

An expulsion requires a two-thirds vote; a censure or fine requires a simple majority.

The New Yorker

The majority of the committee favored a negative report and a censure for Jackson.

Wikipedia

A third charge of "betting on a further 147 football matches" resulted in a censure.

BBC

A censure, backed by a threat.

The Guardian - Sport

This practice, however, is not without a little censure.

The Guardian - Opinion

Those firms received nothing more than a private censure.

The Guardian - Business

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a direct censure" when you want to emphasize the straightforward and unambiguous nature of the disapproval. This phrase is suitable for formal contexts where clarity is paramount.

Common error

Avoid using "a direct censure" for minor disagreements or casual criticisms. This phrase implies a significant level of disapproval and is best reserved for situations involving serious misconduct or ethical breaches.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a direct censure" functions as a noun phrase, where "direct" modifies the noun "censure." It denotes a specific instance of strong disapproval or condemnation. As Ludwig AI states, this phrase is grammatically correct and readily usable.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Wiki

33%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a direct censure" is a grammatically sound phrase used to denote a clear and explicit expression of strong disapproval. While Ludwig AI confirms its correctness, its usage is relatively rare. The phrase is most commonly found in news and media contexts, fitting formal and neutral registers. When using this phrase, ensure that the situation warrants such a strong condemnation, as it implies a significant level of disapproval. Alternatives like "an explicit condemnation" or "a clear rebuke" may be considered depending on the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

An explicit condemnation

Focuses on the explicitness and strength of the disapproval.

A clear rebuke

Highlights the clarity and sharpness of the criticism.

A formal reprimand

Emphasizes the official nature of the disapproval.

An open denouncement

Stresses the public and forthright nature of the criticism.

A strong disapproval

Indicates the intensity of negative sentiment.

A pointed criticism

Highlights the specific and targeted nature of the censure.

A severe admonishment

Emphasizes the seriousness of the warning or scolding.

A harsh judgment

Focuses on the severity of the evaluation.

An unequivocal disapproval

Highlights the absence of doubt or reservation in the censure.

A definitive condemnation

Stresses the finality and decisiveness of the censure.

FAQs

How can I use "a direct censure" in a sentence?

You can use "a direct censure" to describe a clear and explicit expression of disapproval or criticism. For example, "The committee issued "a direct censure" of the policy due to its negative impact on the community."

What are some alternatives to "a direct censure"?

Alternatives to "a direct censure" include phrases like "an explicit condemnation", "a clear rebuke", or "a formal reprimand", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What's the difference between "a direct censure" and "a reprimand"?

"A direct censure" implies a stronger and more public expression of disapproval compared to "a reprimand", which can be more private and less severe. A censure often involves a formal statement of condemnation, while a reprimand is a milder form of criticism.

When is it appropriate to use "a direct censure"?

It is appropriate to use "a direct censure" when addressing serious misconduct, ethical violations, or policy failures that warrant a clear and unambiguous expression of disapproval. It's best suited for formal settings where clarity and accountability are crucial.