reproving

1 7.4

Showing that someone is not happy and trying to correct them

adjective
/rɪˈpruːvɪŋ/

: reprochoso

Her teacher gave her a reproving look when she started talking during the lesson.

Examples

With a reproving tone, she reminded him to say thank you.
He raised a reproving finger, warning the children to behave.
Don't be so reproving all the time!
The teacher gave a reproving look when students talked during class.
Her teacher gave her a reproving look when she started talking during the lesson.
With a reproving tone, she reminded him to say thank you.
The teacher gave a reproving look when students talked during class.

Synonyms

disapproving

vsreproving

10 3.4

Showing that you do not agree with or like something

is specific disapproval used to correct behavior not just dislike

reproachful

vsreproving

2 6.5

Showing disapproval in voice or look

is gentler correction aimed at improving conduct rather than blaming

condemning

vsreproving

2 4.9

Showing that you think something is wrong

is milder correction aimed at changing behavior rather than total rejection

admonishing

vsreproving

1 6.5

Showing mild criticism to help someone behave better

is a general disapproval used to correct people in many situations

admonitory

vsreproving

1 8.3

Giving a warning to show disapproval

is broader disapproval aimed at correcting rather than only warning

Antonyms

approving

8 1.3

Showing that you like and accept someone or something

How Disapproving

condemning

2 4.9

scolding

6 3.3

disapproving

10 3.4

reproving

1 7.4

critical

234 3.8

Surface Forms

reproving positive

Morphology

reproving = reprove (semi-transparent) = reprove + ing

The adjective is a regular -ing participial form built from the verb 'reprove', so the morphological process from the immediate base is straightforward.

Etymology

Reproving comes from re- 'back' and prove 'to test', the same root you see in proof and prove. So a reproving look or tone shows 'disapproval' and tries to correct someone.