above reproach

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "above reproach" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it when you want to emphasize the high standard or superior quality of something or someone. For example: "The politician's record of integrity was above reproach."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"Above reproach" doesn't mean a pastor is sinless.

The Washington Post

It feels solid and above reproach.

Forbes

These companies certainly aren't above reproach.

HuffPost

Is a person whose behavior's above reproach engaging in a clandestine form of mudslinging?

Huffington Post

Many people believe criminal investigations handled by the military are always top-notch and above reproach.

Huffington Post

"He is above reproach".

The New York Times

No one is above reproach".

The New York Times

Beatrix herself remained above reproach.

The New York Times

The Slovak media are not above reproach.

The Economist

Nor is that content above reproach.

The New York Times

But professionally, Ms. Montes seemed above reproach.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "above reproach" when you want to emphasize the unassailable integrity or quality of someone or something. It suggests that even under scrutiny, no fault can be found.

Common error

Avoid using "above reproach" to describe minor or unimportant matters. The phrase carries a significant weight of seriousness and is best reserved for situations involving ethics, integrity, or high standards.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "above reproach" primarily functions as an adjective phrase, modifying a noun to indicate that the subject is beyond criticism or blame. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness. For example, 'The integrity of the office you hold must be above reproach'.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

72%

Formal & Business

14%

Science

14%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "above reproach" is a grammatically correct adjective phrase used to describe something or someone as being beyond criticism or blame. Ludwig AI confirms this. It's most commonly found in news and media, but also appears in formal and business contexts, signaling a neutral to formal register. While it is used to assert unquestionable integrity, it should be reserved for important matters involving ethics or high standards. Related phrases include "beyond criticism" and "irreproachable". The phrase's frequent usage and presence in authoritative sources reinforce its legitimacy and importance in conveying trustworthiness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

irreproachable

A more formal synonym, highlighting faultlessness.

beyond suspicion

Indicates a level of trustworthiness that eliminates any doubt or mistrust.

unimpeachable

Suggests a level of integrity that cannot be questioned.

beyond criticism

Focuses more directly on the absence of critical assessment.

blameless

Emphasizes lack of guilt or responsibility for wrongdoing.

stainless

Implies a purity and lack of corruption or wrongdoing.

without fault

Directly states the absence of any errors or shortcomings.

unblemished

Emphasizes the absence of any marks or flaws on someone's character or record.

exemplary

Highlights the quality of serving as a good example, suggesting high moral standards.

of good repute

Focuses on the positive perception and high regard held by others.

FAQs

How can I use "above reproach" in a sentence?

Use "above reproach" to describe someone or something whose integrity or quality is unquestionable. For example, "The auditor's findings were "above reproach", confirming the company's financial stability."

What are some alternatives to saying "above reproach"?

You can use alternatives such as "beyond criticism", "blameless", or "irreproachable" depending on the specific context.

Is it better to say "above reproach" or "beyond reproach"?

"Above reproach" and "beyond reproach" are largely interchangeable, although ""above reproach"" is slightly more common. Both suggest something is free from blame or criticism.

In what contexts is "above reproach" most appropriately used?

"Above reproach" is best used in contexts where integrity, ethics, or high standards are central. This includes discussions about leaders, professionals, or processes that must be beyond any suspicion of wrongdoing.