reproach

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "reproach" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to the act of expressing disapproval or disappointment in someone or something. Example sentence: Her parents reproached her for not doing her best on the exam.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

On the surface of it, Museveni's opening gamut was pure demagoguery – a jab at the west and an absurd reproach against gay zombies.

The Guardian

Robinson reports once having to reproach the No 10 communications chief, telling Oliver he could not know in advance about his analysis and he would have to "watch the News at Ten like everyone else".

The Guardian

Anyway, Marr's stroke has the virtue of putting him beyond reproach.

The Guardian

It's a setback and we should reproach ourselves for wasting this opportunity," said the Marseille coach, Marcelo Bielsa, who lamented his team's poor finishing.

The Guardian - Sport

At the time of writing the mums are still inside, having converted a decent, needlessly empty home (power shower, new cooker and electrics still on) into a community centre – and a concrete reproach to the capital's housing crisis.

The Guardian - Opinion

"It is a measure of the man that, though he was almost alone in our party in not supporting the decision to enter into coalition in May 2010, there was never a hint of reproach or 'I told you so' in the advice he gave to me," Clegg said.

The Guardian

America's stance is not beyond reproach either: its negotiators know that the American Congress will not accept any international agreement that is seen to be a burden on the economy, which is why carbon sinks and trading are reckoned to be the best way to lower costs of compliance.

The Economist

By these lights, says Mr al-Shareef, the perpetrators of 9/11 were "double-crossers", having entered America with American visas and so with an implied contract of protection.Mr al-Shareef's motives are not above reproach.

The Economist

Many Kyrgyz resent the uniform reproach that has come from abroad.

The Economist

Yet the planet is impervious to where or how cuts are made, so long as the stock of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere is reduced.Not that the American stance is beyond reproach.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Because I drowned in self-reproach every time I did or said something silly, which was often.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "reproach", consider the intensity of the criticism you wish to convey. It can range from a mild rebuke to a strong condemnation. Choose synonyms carefully to match the context.

Common error

Avoid using "reproach" when you intend to express approval or admiration. "Reproach" always carries a negative connotation, implying criticism or blame.

Linguistic Context

The word "reproach" functions primarily as a verb or a noun. As a verb, it signifies the act of expressing disapproval or criticism. As a noun, it refers to the expression itself. Ludwig provides numerous examples illustrating both usages.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Formal & Business

25%

Science

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Academic sources

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "reproach" is a versatile word used to express disapproval or criticism, functioning as both a noun and a verb. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in written English. With a high frequency of occurrence, particularly in News & Media and Formal & Business contexts, "reproach" carries a generally neutral to formal tone. When employing this term, be mindful of the intensity of criticism you wish to convey and avoid misusing it as praise. Related phrases such as "express disapproval" or "voice criticism" can offer nuanced alternatives. Overall, "reproach" serves as a valuable tool for articulating dissatisfaction and highlighting perceived faults.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

express disapproval

Focuses on the act of conveying a negative opinion.

voice criticism

Highlights the act of verbalizing fault-finding.

censure strongly

Emphasizes a formal and severe form of disapproval.

lay blame

Emphasizes the act of assigning responsibility for a fault or wrong.

rebuke sternly

Focuses on a harsh and direct form of criticism.

take to task

Implies a formal or serious reprimand.

chastise severely

Indicates a punishment-oriented form of criticism.

call out

Indicates a public act of criticizing someone's behavior.

find fault with

Suggests a general tendency to criticize.

admonish formally

Suggests a gentle, but firm and official warning or scolding.

FAQs

How do you use "reproach" in a sentence?

"Reproach" can be used as a verb, meaning to express disapproval or criticism, or as a noun, referring to the expression of disapproval itself. For example: "Her parents "reproached her" for lying" (verb) or "His actions were a "reproach to his family"" (noun).

What's the difference between "reproach" and "criticize"?

"Criticize" is a general term for expressing disapproval. "Reproach" implies a more personal and often gentler form of criticism, often tinged with disappointment. "Reproach" often refers to a specific instance, while "criticize" can refer to ongoing habits.

What can I say instead of "reproach"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "rebuke", "admonish", "criticize", or "reprimand". The best choice depends on the intensity and formality of the situation.

Is it correct to say someone is "beyond reproach"?

Yes, "beyond reproach" means that someone's behavior or character is so exemplary that they cannot be criticized or blamed. It suggests they are morally or ethically impeccable.