Reprove: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to gently correct someone or express mild disapproval, often in a constructive manner.

• The teacher reproved the student for being late to class.
• She reproved her friend for not attending the meeting.

Used to express sharp disapproval or criticism of someone because of their behavior or actions. Generally stronger than 'reprove' and often carries a negative connotation.

• The coach rebuked the player for not following the game plan.
• He was rebuked by his superior for the mistake in the report.

Used to severely criticize or reprimand someone, often in an authoritative manner. Can carry a negative connotation.

• The manager chastised the employee for missing the deadline.
• Parents sometimes chastise their children for bad behavior.

Used to express disapproval of someone or something, pointing out faults or issues. Can be either constructive or negative depending on context.

• The movie critic criticized the film for its weak plot.
• She criticized the government's policy in her speech.

Most suitable when gently expressing disapproval or correction, often used in more formal or old-fashioned settings.

• The teacher reproved the student for talking during the lecture.
• She reproved him for his untidy attire.

Used when proving that a statement or theory is wrong or false, often through detailed argument or evidence, typically used in formal contexts like debates or legal cases.

• The lawyer refuted the accusations with solid evidence.
• He refuted the hypothesis in his research paper.

Appropriate when providing evidence that shows something is false or incorrect, commonly used in scientific or formal contexts.

• The scientist was able to disprove the outdated theory.
• They could not disprove his alibi.

Used when stating that someone else's statement or opinion is wrong or incorrect, often used in discussions or arguments.

• He contradicted her claim about the meeting.
• The evidence contradicts his version of the events.