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reprimand

reprimand

24 6.1
A formal complaint from someone in charge about bad behaviour
  • noun
  • /ˈrɛprɪˌmænd/
  • Formal
translation icon : amonestación
  • Unfortunately, when verbal reprimands are given, they often attack the student rather than the behavior.
  • a verbal reprimand
  • reprimand sessions
  • teacher reprimands

I tried every technique I knew, Behaviour, contracts, praise, reprimands.

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Examples

  • I was deeply abashed by this insightful reprimand and said, "Honored Lady, how can I then repay the college?"

    Fiction book (2002)
  • I'm just trying to avoid an unnecessary reprimand.

  • "Please remain where you are for your reprimand"

  • Otherwise, I'm gonna have to give you a serious reprimand.

  • If the behavior does not stop, a verbal reprimand may be necessary.

    Academic text (1990)
  • There will be a stern reprimand for you, lad.

  • "No reason at all, sir," I say, and wait for my reprimand, transfer, or court-martial.

    Fiction book (1993)
  • They're gonna let me off with a reprimand.

  • Who are you serving by arguing so against your father?" Her mother's reprimand, though spoken gently, had struck hard.

    Fiction book (1998)
  • The teacher's reprimand made it clear that such behavior would not be tolerated.

Synonyms

condemnation
vsreprimand
56 5.5

A strong statement saying someone or something is wrong

is a formal authoritative expression rather than a private judgement
rebuke
vsreprimand
22 6.8

A strong comment that shows disapproval of someone's actions

is a formal authority-based expression rather than intensely personal sharpness
scolding
vsreprimand
7 3.3

A strong angry talk that tells someone they did something wrong

is a formal expression by someone in authority rather than an angry personal attack
stern warning
vsreprimand
5 3.4

A firm, serious statement that tells someone to stop wrong or dangerous behavior

is a formal authority-led disapproval rather than primarily a cautionary warning
admonishment
vsreprimand
4 7.0

A firm warning that tells someone to change their behavior

is an official expression by authority focusing on disapproval rather than just warning
chastisement
vsreprimand
  • Formal
3 7.2

A strong spoken scolding for a mistake

is an organized formal expression by someone in charge rather than mainly punishment
reproof
vsreprimand
2 7.1

A mild criticism that aims to correct someone

is a formal disapproval usually from authority rather than a gentle correction
berating
vsreprimand
1 6.3

A strong angry talk that tells someone they did something wrong

is an official disapproval coming from authority rather than a loud angry attack
chiding
vsreprimand
1 7.2

A talk that tells someone they did something wrong, often angrily

is a formal, authoritative expression rather than a personal harsh remark
dressing-down
vsreprimand
  • Informal
1 7.7

A strong angry talk that tells someone they did something wrong

is a formal disapproval usually issued by an authority rather than delivered to leaders
upbraiding
vsreprimand
1 8.5

A harsh telling off given for a serious mistake

is a formal, authority-led expression rather than emotionally driven criticism
reproval
vsreprimand
  • Archaic
1 7.5

A spoken or written sign of disapproval of someone's actions

is usually an official, authority-led expression rather than a general remark
reprobation
vsreprimand
1 9.5

A strong moral disapproval from other people

is an authority-led formal expression rather than only a moral judgement
what for
vsreprimand
  • Informal
1 8.8

A strong scolding you get when someone is angry with you

is a formal, authority-based expression rather than a casual spoken telling-off
dispraise
vsreprimand
  • Archaic
1 9.9

Speaking badly about a person or thing to show you do not approve

is typically an official expression delivered by an authority, not general contempt
reprehension
vsreprimand
  • Formal
9.8

Strong criticism of someone's actions

is an official expression made by an authority instead of general forceful criticism

Antonyms

161 1.0

Words or actions that show admiration for someone

commendation
  • Formal
39 6.8

An official award or letter praising someone for good work

How Severe

condemnation
  • Formal
4 7.4
censure
  • Formal
141 7.4
rebuke
22 6.8
reprimand
  • Formal
24 6.1
warning
1.0

Surface Forms

reprimand singular
reprimands plural

Etymology

Reprimand comes from an old Latin verb made from re- 'back' and premere 'to press', like the English word press. So a reprimand is like a 'pressing back' on someone's behavior, a formal, strong expression of disapproval.