Denounce Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ซ
denounce
[dษชหnaสns ]
Definitions
politics
Publicly declare to be wrong or evil. Condemn openly and formally.
Synonyms
condemn, criticize, disapprove.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
denounce |
Use this word when you publicly declare that something is wrong or evil. It's often used in formal settings like politics or media.
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condemn |
This word is best suited when expressing strong disapproval or blaming someone for an action, usually publicly and for serious matters.
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criticize |
Use this when you want to point out someoneโs faults or errors, which can be done in both formal and informal settings.
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disapprove |
Best used when expressing a mild or personal lack of approval, rather than a public or strong condemnation.
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Examples of usage
- She denounced the government's policy on immigration.
- The opposition party denounced the new law as unconstitutional.
crime
Inform against someone; give evidence of someone's guilt.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
denounce |
Used when formally and publicly declaring that something or someone is wrong or evil.
|
accuse |
Used when claiming that someone has done something wrong or illegal, often requiring proof.
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betray |
Used when someone is disloyal or reveals something confidential or secret, often harming a person or cause. This has a negative connotation.
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report |
Used when formally giving information about someone or something, often to authorities.
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Examples of usage
- He was denounced to the police by an anonymous tip.
- The witness was afraid to denounce the criminal in court.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
History
- In political contexts, denouncing has been used throughout history to call out injustices, such as during the French Revolution.
- Many historical figures, like Martin Luther King Jr., used public denouncements to highlight social issues and advocate for change.
Literature
- In literature, characters often denounce others to reveal truths and develop conflict, as seen in plays like Arthur Millerโs 'The Crucible'.
- Famous authors have used denouncement in their works to critique societal norms and injustices, such as in George Orwell's writings.
Psychology
- Denouncing can serve as a mechanism for societal safety, allowing individuals to express disapproval of harmful behavior and promote awareness.
- Studies show that public denouncement can influence group dynamics, causing individuals to align with or against the denounced party.
Pop Culture
- In social media, public figures often denounce controversial actions or policies to address their followers and shape public opinion.
- Reality TV shows frequently feature moments where cast members denounce each otherโs behavior, highlighting interpersonal conflicts.
Origin of 'denounce'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'denuntiare', which means to declare or announce something, often with a negative connotation.
- In Middle English, the term evolved from 'denouncen', reflecting the act of formally accusing or informing against something.
The word 'denounce' originated from the Latin word 'denuntiare', which means 'to announce'. It entered the English language in the late 15th century. Throughout history, 'denounce' has been used to publicly condemn or inform against someone or something, often in a formal or official manner.
See also: denunciation, denunciatory.
Word Frequency Rank
With rank #15,095, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.
- ...
- 15092 proffered
- 15093 proverbial
- 15094 slay
- 15095 denounce
- 15096 phytoplankton
- 15097 wig
- 15098 catalyzed
- ...