reprove — to criticize someone, usually gently, because they have done something wrong
Part of speech: VERB
Definition: to criticize someone, usually gently, because they have done something wrong
Pronunciation (IPA): /rɪˈpruːv/
Example Sentences
- My mom reproved me for eating ice cream for breakfast, but honestly, it's basically frozen milk!
- The boss reproved the employee for being late to the important meeting.
- She reproved her cat with a stern voice, but the cat just stared back with zero regret.
reprove
VERB[/rɪˈpruːv/]
to criticize someone, usually gently, because they have done something wrong

The teacher gently reproved the boy for scribbling on his desk.

Re-prove yourself after gentle criticism!

I reprove to help you improve, then I'll approve
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
From Middle French reprover, derived from Old French reprover meaning 'to blame or rebuke.' The word comes from Latin reprobare, combining re- (back) and probare (to assent or approve), literally meaning 'to disapprove.'
Breakdown
re- (back/again) + prove (from Latin probare, to assent) = reprove (to express disapproval or mild criticism)
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“My mom reproved me for eating ice cream for breakfast, but honestly, it's basically frozen milk!”
“The boss reproved the employee for being late to the important meeting.”
“She reproved her cat with a stern voice, but the cat just stared back with zero regret.”
“The judge reproved the lawyer for inappropriate behavior in court.”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
Antonyms
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