reproach
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /rɪˈproʊtʃ/
KK: /rɪˈproʊtʃ/
noun
Definition
A feeling of blame or disapproval towards someone or something.
Example
She felt a deep sense of reproach after failing to meet the deadline.
Conversation
I felt a bit of reproach when I missed the meeting yesterday.
I understand, but everyone makes mistakes sometimes.
Yeah, I just didn't want to let the team down and face their reproach.
Don't worry too much; they know you're usually reliable.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
blame
rebuke
censure
Antonyms
praise
approval
commendation
transitive verb
Definition
To express disappointment or criticism towards someone for their actions or behavior.
Example
She reproached him for being late to the meeting.
Tense Forms
Past: reproached
Past Participle: reproached
Conversation
I can't believe you forgot my birthday this year.
I know, I feel really bad about it.
It's not just that; I felt a bit reproach from our friends too.
Root Explanation
Reproach → It is formed from "re-" (meaning again) and "prochare" (from Latin *prope*, meaning to draw near or approach). The word means to draw near again to someone in a critical manner, often to express disappointment or disapproval.
Memory Tip
Think of approaching someone 'again' ('re-') to express disappointment — that's why reproach means to criticize or blame.
Visually Confused Words
reapproach
rebroach
unreproached
repatch
recoach