under reproach

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "under reproach" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where someone is being criticized or blamed for something. Example: "After the scandal, the politician found himself under reproach from both the media and the public."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Even so, in some circles the women have come under reproach for not keeping pace with the men's crews over the long haul.

The New York Times - Sports

It is so called from the title of its first book, which contains poems descriptive of fortitude in battle, patient endurance of calamity, steadfastness in seeking vengeance, and constancy under reproach and in temptation in a word, the attribute of ḥamāsah.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Like all but the most indefatigable, Blue Steel, eye-of-the-tiger bibliophiles, I possess a pile of books, increasing stealthily year on year, which in my personal library should be shelved under Dusty Reproach – the mighty canonical works I've gradually given up hope of conquering.

The Guardian - Books

He explains this: And, it is a mistake to think, that the most hardened sinner, who oweth his possessions or titles to any such wicked arts of thieving, can have true peace of mind, under the reproaches of a guilty conscience, and amid the cries of ruined widows and orphans.

Wikipedia

Perceiving that his children have been ruined by privilege and consigned to aimlessness, King also squirms under the imagined reproach of his ancestors.

The New York Times - Books

But the issue proved quite contrary to what those who sent the message expected; instead of bringing Pericles under suspicion and reproach, they raised him into yet greater credit and esteem with the citizens, as a man whom their enemies most hated and feared.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

In recent days, the fund industry's claim that it is above reproach has come under question.

The New York Times

Indeed, Holder has managed to eclipse both John Ashcroft and Alberto Gonzalez, whose tenures under George W. Bush earned them constant reproach by Democrats and other left-leaning groups for justifying acts of torture, surveillance of American citizens and clandestine behavior by the government.

Huffington Post

For decades under the British, Hong Kong was a standing reproach to backward and musty China, its shiny affluence and consumerism envied by the poor cousins to the north.

The New York Times - Style

Pure, Beyond Reproach is Psutka's fourth LP under the Egyptrixx moniker, a project he describes as "celestial club music".

Vice

The 2018 report covers the first full year of ratings under the Trump administration and amounts to a sharp reproach of its management at most agencies.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "under reproach" to clearly indicate that someone or something is currently being criticized or blamed. This is especially useful when you want to convey a sense of ongoing scrutiny or disapproval.

Common error

Avoid using "reproachful" when you mean "under reproach". "Reproachful" describes a person expressing disapproval, while "under reproach" describes the state of being criticized. For example, instead of saying 'He was reproachful for his actions', say 'He came under reproach for his actions'.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "under reproach" functions as a prepositional phrase, modifying a noun or pronoun to indicate a state of being criticized or blamed. Ludwig's analysis confirms its use in describing situations where an entity is facing disapproval. Examples show it used in contexts ranging from personal actions to organizational behavior.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

20%

Encyclopedias

20%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "under reproach" effectively conveys a state of being criticized or blamed. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its grammatical correctness and identifies its primary function as a prepositional phrase. While its frequency is uncommon, it appears in a range of contexts, including news, academia, and encyclopedias. To ensure clarity and accuracy, remember to use it when describing ongoing criticism and avoid confusing it with "reproachful". For alternative expressions, consider phrases like "subject to criticism" or "facing condemnation".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

subject to criticism

Focuses on the act of being criticized, rather than the specific concept of reproach.

facing condemnation

Emphasizes a stronger level of disapproval or judgment.

bearing the brunt of blame

Highlights the negative consequences and burden of being blamed.

exposed to censure

Implies a formal or official expression of disapproval.

in disgrace

Suggests a loss of reputation or honor due to wrongdoing.

under fire

Emphasizes intense scrutiny and attack, often in a public context.

being taken to task

Implies a formal correction of errors.

experiencing disapproval

Focuses on a lack of approval or positive regard.

held accountable

Highlights the responsibility and consequences of actions.

taking flak

Describes bearing strong criticism.

FAQs

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

Use "under reproach" to indicate that someone or something is being criticized or blamed. For instance, "The company came under reproach for its environmental practices."

What are some alternatives to "under reproach"?

Alternatives include "subject to criticism", "facing condemnation", or "bearing the brunt of blame", each conveying a slightly different nuance of disapproval.

Is it better to say "under reproach" or "being reproached"?

"Under reproach" typically describes a continuous state of being criticized, while "being reproached" describes a specific instance of receiving criticism. Choose the phrase that best fits the context of your sentence.

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

"Reproach" often carries a stronger sense of disappointment or disapproval than simple "criticism". While both involve pointing out flaws, "reproach" suggests a moral or ethical dimension to the disapproval.