reprove
Noun
Hard difficulty
What does “reprove” mean?
noun.to reprimand or censure (someone), for a fault.
SAT Usage
the term often appears in literary passages or contexts involving authority and moral behavior. It emphasizes a formal and corrective approach to criticism, distinguishing it from similar words like "scold," which may convey a more informal or emotional reprimand.
Common Confusions
Reprove implies a formal and corrective reprimand for a fault, while scold usually suggests a more informal and emotional expression of disapproval.
Do not choose reprove if the context emphasizes praise or approval rather than reprimanding or censuring someone for a fault.
Example Sentences
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She reproved him for speaking so harshly to the volunteers.
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The teacher chose to gently reprove the student for his disruptive behavior, hoping to guide him toward making better choices in the future without stifling his creativity.