reproof: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Formal, literary
Quick answer
What does “reproof” mean?
An expression of criticism or disapproval.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
An expression of criticism or disapproval; a rebuke.
The act of reprimanding or censuring someone; formal or severe criticism, often for a moral or ethical fault.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in meaning or usage. The word is used in both varieties, though it is somewhat literary/formal.
Connotations
Slightly more common in British English in formal or religious contexts. In American English, it may sound slightly more archaic or high-register.
Frequency
Low frequency in both, but marginally higher in UK English corpus data.
Grammar
How to Use “reproof” in a Sentence
reproof for [noun phrase/gerund]reproof from [person]in reproofa reproof that...Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “reproof” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The headmaster felt obliged to reprove the boys for their constant lateness.
- She was quietly reproved for speaking out of turn.
American English
- The senator reproved his colleague for the unethical leak.
- His father's look was enough to reprove him.
adverb
British English
- Not applicable as a standard adverb form.
American English
- Not applicable as a standard adverb form.
adjective
British English
- Not applicable as a standard adjective form.
American English
- Not applicable as a standard adjective form.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare. Might appear in formal disciplinary contexts: 'The manager issued a written reproof for the breach of protocol.'
Academic
Found in literary criticism, historical texts, and ethics discussions: 'The novel is a subtle reproof of Victorian hypocrisy.'
Everyday
Very rare in casual speech. Might be used humorously or self-consciously: 'She gave me a gentle reproof for forgetting her birthday.'
Technical
Not used in technical fields outside of specific theological or philosophical discourse.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “reproof”
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “reproof”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “reproof”
- Using it as a verb (the verb is 'reprove'). Incorrect: 'He reproofed his son.' Correct: 'He reproved his son.' or 'He gave his son a reproof.'
- Confusing spelling with 'reproof' as re-proofing (making waterproof again).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
'Reproof' is primarily a noun. The corresponding verb is 'reprove'.
'Reproof' suggests a more formal, often reasoned correction of a fault. 'Reproach' is more personal, emotional, and implies disappointment or blame for failing a standard.
It's very formal and somewhat literary. In everyday speech, words like 'telling-off', 'scolding', or simply 'criticism' are more common.
In British English: /rɪˈpruːf/ (ri-PROOF). In American English: /rɪˈpruf/ (ri-PROOF). The stress is on the second syllable.
An expression of criticism or disapproval.
Reproof is usually formal, literary in register.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “a look of reproof”
- “beyond reproof (irreproachable)”
- “a word to the wise is enough (implies gentle reproof)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: RE-PROOF. You give someone a new 'proof' or demonstration that their behaviour was wrong, re-proving their fault.
Conceptual Metaphor
CRITICISM IS A PHYSICAL BLOW/FORCE ('stinging reproof', 'sharp reproof'), or CRITICISM IS A LIQUID ('full of reproof', 'awash with reproof').
Practice
Quiz
Which of the following is the LEAST likely synonym for 'reproof' in a formal context?