in reproach

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in reproach" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing disapproval or disappointment towards someone or something. Example: "She looked at him in reproach after he broke his promise."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

Pakistan shut them to NATO supplies completely for seven months in 2011 and 2012, in reproach for an American air strike that killed 24 Pakistani troops.

The Economist

They blame him for the lowering of the state's credit rating on Monday, and they often raise their voices in reproach.

The New York Times

At one point, Angela angrily slapped her pregnant stomach (in reproach to such a violent world), but then slumped in horror onto a kitchen chair.

The New Yorker

The sound of much reviewing nowadays is the sound of one hand clapping -- of literature gently patting its own back, sometimes in praise and sometimes in reproach, for fear of breaking something.

The New York Times - Books

There's never been a time when it's Ghormenghastly towers didn't jab the skyline in reproach to the city - a baleful reminder of the influence of local politicians, planning officers and developers.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

When the agent asks whether a smaller house closer to town "might be more suitable," her black veil gives a sharp rustle a noise as crisp as the crushing of a hatchling as she swivels her head to glare in reproach.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

He warrants due respect, then, in reproaching those who had assumed Frankel to be the most accomplished member of his generation in 2010.

Independent

SEOUL, South Korea — Resisting pressure from South Korean and Japanese leaders during two days of talks, Prime Minister Wen Jiabao of China gave no public hint on Sunday that his government was ready to join in reproaching North Korea over the sinking of a South Korean warship.

The New York Times

"Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in needs, in persecutions, in distresses, for Christ's sake.

HuffPost

Under the uncommon byline of "Shane M.," I had condemned the re-election of Iranian president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad as bogus, as well as the U.S. media for its apparent determination to dismiss the ensuing protests as an isolated event, the two parts of my identity brought in for reproach in equal measure.

HuffPost

The rapper Talib Kweli was also outspoken in his reproach.

The Guardian - Music

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "in reproach", ensure the context clearly indicates who is expressing the reproach and towards whom or what it is directed. Clarity is key for effective communication.

Common error

Avoid using "in reproach" when a stronger term like "condemnation" or "accusation" is more appropriate. "In reproach" implies a milder form of disapproval, and using it in a context demanding stronger language can weaken your message.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in reproach" primarily functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb to describe the manner in which an action is performed. It indicates that something is done with an expression of disapproval or disappointment, as evidenced by the examples provided by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

20%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "in reproach" is a grammatically sound prepositional phrase used to express disapproval or disappointment. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is usable in written English, adding a nuanced layer of emotion to statements. While not overly common, its use is primarily found in news and media sources, suggesting a neutral to slightly formal register. When using this phrase, ensure it accurately reflects the intended level of disapproval and that the context clearly indicates the subject and object of the reproach.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

with disapproval

Replaces the noun "reproach" with the more common noun "disapproval", creating a slightly broader sense of negative sentiment.

with criticism

Shifts the focus to expressing faults or disapproval, potentially implying a more articulated form of negative feedback.

expressing disappointment

Focuses on the feeling of being let down, rather than necessarily assigning blame or fault.

in condemnation

Conveys a strong expression of disapproval, often with a moral judgment.

giving a rebuke

Implies a sharp or stern disapproval, often from someone in authority.

showing censure

Indicates formal disapproval, often in a public or official context.

casting aspersions

Suggests a subtle or indirect attack on someone's character or reputation.

leveling accusations

Directly implies the making of formal charges of wrongdoing.

expressing chagrin

Highlights feelings of vexation marked by disappointment or failure.

registering protest

Communicates an objection or disapproval, often in a public or formal way.

FAQs

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

Use "in reproach" to indicate someone is expressing disapproval or disappointment. For example, "She looked at him "in reproach" after he broke his promise".

What's a less formal way to say "in reproach"?

Less formal alternatives to "in reproach" include "with disapproval", "disapprovingly", or simply expressing disappointment directly.

Is there a difference between "in reproach" and "in condemnation"?

"In reproach" suggests a milder form of disapproval or disappointment, while "in condemnation" implies a stronger, often moral, judgment against something.

When is it appropriate to use "in reproach" versus another similar phrase?

Choose "in reproach" when you want to convey a sense of disappointment or mild blame without being overly harsh. If the situation calls for stronger criticism, consider phrases like "with criticism" or "in disapproval".