reprove

American  

[ri-proov] / rɪˈpruv /

verb (used with object)

reproved, reproving

1. to criticize or correct, especially gently.

   to reprove a pupil for making a mistake.

   Synonyms:

   admonish, reprehend, chide, upbraid, reprimand, scold

   Antonyms:

   praise

2. to disapprove of strongly; censure.

   to reprove a bad decision.

3. Obsolete. to disprove or refute.

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verb (used without object)

reproved, reproving

1. to speak in reproof; administer a reproof.

reprove British  

/ rɪˈpruːv /

verb

1. (tr) to speak disapprovingly to (a person); rebuke or scold

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Related Words

See reproach.

Other Word Forms

• reprovable
  adjective
• reprover
  noun
• reproving
  adjective
• reprovingly
  adverb

Etymology

Origin of reprove

First recorded in 1275–1325; Middle English reproven, from Old French reprover, from Late Latin reprobāre, equivalent to re- re- + probāre “to test,” ( see prove)

Explanation

If you get into trouble and are sent to the principal’s office, be prepared for the principal to reprove you for your behavior. To reprove is to scold, reprimand, or — in plain English — “chew out.” Reprove is a verb used in the same way as “scold,” or “dress down.” To reprove is to express your dissatisfaction or disapproval with something. It’s a less severe word than denounce or decry. It is closer to the verb criticize. Your parents might reprove you for a minor offense like not cleaning your room or chewing with your mouth open. And, for the record, reprove is not the root word prove with the prefix re- as if to mean “prove again.” If you use it that way, someone would likely reprove you.

Example Sentences

“I always feel like you have to reprove yourself,” she said.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 24, 2024

He refused to see a doctor because he didn’t want his mission president to reprove him.

From Slate • Oct. 13, 2015

Scalia’ll reprove ya With some jurisprudential effluvia, Then, with scowling harrumph And a baleful galumph, He’ll trudge homeward to Antediluvia.

From Washington Post • Sep. 9, 2015

But in Hollywood it's really tough to change genres, you have to reprove yourself.

From Salon • Apr. 14, 2011

Admonish, ad-mon′ish, v.t. to warn: to reprove mildly.—n.

From Chambers's Twentieth Century Dictionary (part 1 of 4: A-D) by Various