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Glite Dictionary
denunciative

denunciative

9.3
Showing strong disapproval and warning of punishment
  • adjective
  • /dɪˈnʌnʃəˌtɪv/
translation icon : denunciativo
  • The letter was written in a denunciative tone, warning of consequences for further violations.

Examples

  • His denunciative remarks made it clear that such behavior would not be tolerated.

  • The judge delivered a denunciative speech against corruption in the courtroom.

  • The teacher issued a denunciative statement regarding cheating.

  • His speech was filled with denunciative remarks about corruption.

  • The letter was written in a denunciative tone, warning of consequences for further violations.

  • His denunciative remarks made it clear that such behavior would not be tolerated.

  • The judge delivered a denunciative speech against corruption in the courtroom.

Synonyms

damning
vsdenunciative
3 7.5

Saying someone will go to hell because of their sins

is broader warning of punishment or condemnation outside religious sense
denunciatory
vsdenunciative
9.8

Showing strong criticism and warning of punishment for bad actions

is identical in meaning but uses a different adjective form
comminatory
vsdenunciative
  • Archaic
9.9

A warning of punishment to frighten people who break rules

emphasises general condemnation as well as punishment warning

Antonyms

supportive
348 2.8

Willing to give help or comfort when someone needs it

approving
1.3

Showing that you like and accept someone or something

How Condemning

damning
49 5.3
condemnatory
1 7.9
denunciative
9.3
critical
210 3.8
disapproving
5 3.4

Surface Forms

denunciative positive

Morphology

denunciative = denunciation (transparent) = denounce + denunciation + ation + ive

Formed from 'denunciation' (denounce + -ation) with the adjectival suffix '-ive', so the meaning 'expressing denunciation/condemnation' is directly inferable.

Etymology

Denunciative comes from the verb denounce, which is made of de- and nounce, the same nounce you see in announce and pronounce, and originally meant 'to make known' often as a warning. So a denunciative remark is one that publicly warns or strongly condemns someone, which is why it sounds harsh.