rebuke

Meanings

1. 1verbtransitive

   To criticize someone sharply, usually because they have done something wrong.

   Grammar: Takes a direct object, often with for plus -ing: rebuke him for arriving late.

   Patterns

   • rebuke someone
   • rebuke someone for something
   • sharply rebuke someone

   The judge rebuked the lawyer for repeatedly interrupting.

   She rebuked her assistant sharply in front of the whole office.

   The report rebukes the agency for its slow response.

2. 2nouncountableformal

   A sharp expression of disapproval or criticism directed at a person or action.

   Grammar: Often with draw, earn, or receive: his remarks drew a rebuke from the minister.

   Patterns

   • sharp rebuke
   • a rebuke from someone
   • draw a rebuke

   He received a sharp rebuke from his manager.

   Her speech was a thinly veiled rebuke of the new policy.

   The team captain's error earned a public rebuke.

Word forms

Common combinations

sharply rebuke someone

The mayor sharply rebuked officials for the long delay.

rebuke someone for something

The teacher rebuked him for copying another student's work.

publicly rebuke

The senator publicly rebuked her colleague's comments.

draw a rebuke

His remarks drew a rebuke from the judge.

a stern rebuke

The committee's report is a stern rebuke of the company's safety record.

Synonyms and how they differ

reprimand

Reprimand is the formal official word, especially from an employer or authority figure.

scold

Scold means to criticize angrily and at length; it is less formal and often directed at children.

admonish

Admonish is formal and suggests a warning or gentle correction rather than sharp blame.

criticize

Criticize is the general word; rebuke implies a sharper, more serious, and more personal correction.

Opposites

Commonly confused: rebuke or rebuff?

Practice

Make it your own

Write a sentence using “rebuke”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.

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