Censuring Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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censuring

[หˆsษ›nสƒษ™rษชล‹ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

criticize

To express strong disapproval of someone or something, typically in a formal statement.

Synonyms

condemn, criticize, rebuke, reprimand.

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Word Description / Examples
censuring

Usually formal and official disapproval, often by an organization or government body. It implies a severe form of criticism aimed at a person's or group's actions or behaviors.

  • The senator faced censuring from the ethics committee for his conduct
  • The board's censuring of the CEO was a clear message of disapproval
criticize

To indicate disapproval or find fault, often in a detailed and constructive manner. It can be used formally or informally and does not always carry a harsh negative tone.

  • She criticized the author's writing style but praised his creativity
  • The movie was criticized for its poor plot but had good special effects
condemn

Used to express strong disapproval, often with moral implications, usually in a formal or public setting. It carries a very negative connotation.

  • World leaders quickly condemned the terrorist attack
  • The judge condemned the cruelty shown by the defendant
rebuke

A sharp reprimand or scolding, often sudden and with a tone of authority. It is usually more personal and direct than censure.

  • The teacher rebuked the student for his rude behavior
  • His boss rebuked him in front of his colleagues for missing the deadline
reprimand

A formal expression of disapproval, often given in a workplace or official setting. It typically involves a higher authority addressing someone lower down.

  • The employee received a reprimand for being late frequently
  • The officer was reprimanded for not following protocol

Examples of usage

  • He was censured by the committee for his inappropriate behavior.
  • The company was censured for violating environmental regulations.
  • The teacher censured the student for cheating on the exam.
Context #2 | Verb

official

To officially reprimand or rebuke someone for their actions.

Synonyms

chastise, condemn, rebuke, reprimand.

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Word Description / Examples
censuring

Use this term in formal or official settings when expressing disapproval of someoneโ€™s actions, often involving a statement or declaration.

  • The committee is censuring the member for his inappropriate conduct.
  • The manager issued a censure for the employee's repeated tardiness.
reprimand

This is used in formal or official contexts to describe a formal expression of disapproval. It is a stern and often documented form of criticism.

  • The officer received a formal reprimand for disobeying orders.
  • The CEO reprimanded the department for not meeting the deadlines.
rebuke

Use this when giving a sharp or stern reprimand, usually verbally. It often implies disapproval but might not carry the same level of severity as 'condemn' or 'chastise'.

  • The supervisor rebuked the staff for sloppy work.
  • He received a rebuke from his mentor for his careless behavior.
condemn

This word is used to express strong disapproval, often in a severe or moralistic context. It is formal and can imply a judgment of morality or ethics.

  • The world leaders condemn the attack on innocent civilians.
  • The policy was condemned for its negative impact on the environment.
chastise

This term is used when scolding someone harshly. It can be both verbal and physical but often implies a strong reprimand. It has a more personal and emotional tone.

  • The teacher chastised the student for not doing his homework.
  • She chastised her son for breaking the vase.

Examples of usage

  • The senator faced censure from his colleagues for his controversial remarks.
  • The president was censured by the Congress for his unethical behavior.
  • The organization decided to censure the employee for his misconduct.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Historical Background

  • During the McCarthy era in the 1950s, many public figures faced censure for expressing dissenting opinions in the U.S.
  • In ancient Rome, magistrates had the power to censure citizens, emphasizing public morality and social order.
  • Censuring has been used throughout history as a political tool, often to suppress dissent and maintain control.

Media & Communication

  • In journalism, censure can imply calling out misinformation, aiming to maintain credibility and protect the public.
  • Television shows or films may face censure from ratings boards for content thatโ€™s deemed inappropriate, affecting their audience reach.
  • Censorship in art can provoke strong reactions, as artists may be censured for challenging societal norms through their work.

Psychology

  • Studies show that being censured can lead to feelings of shame or guilt, affecting self-esteem and behavior.
  • In group settings, official censure is often seen as a social norm, helping to enforce acceptable behavior through peer pressure.
  • Destructive criticism can undermine an individualโ€™s mental health, while constructive censure helps promote growth.

Literature

  • Many classic novels explore themes of censure, where characters face moral dilemmas and societal judgment.
  • Famous literary works, such as George Orwell's '1984', depict extreme forms of censorship and societal control mechanisms.
  • The concept of censure is often criticized in literature as a means to explore themes of freedom, justice, and individuality.

Origin of 'censuring'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'censure' comes from the Latin 'censura', which referred to the office of a Roman official who assessed moral conduct.
  • In English, 'censure' first appeared in the early 16th century, highlighting its long history in discussions of morality and ethics.
  • The act of censoring often involves both spoken and written forms, giving rise to a practice of public accountability in societies.

The word 'censure' originated from the Latin word 'censura', which meant 'judgment' or 'censorship'. In ancient Rome, 'censura' referred to the power of a censor to give an official opinion on moral and social matters. Over time, the term evolved to denote the act of expressing disapproval or criticism. The concept of censuring individuals or actions has been present in various societies throughout history as a means of maintaining social order and accountability.


See also: censurable, censurer, censuringly.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #29,323, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.