rebuke
To express sharp disapproval or criticism of someone because of their behavior or actions.
A rebuke is a sharp, sudden, and authoritative slap on the wrist. It is designed to stop a bad behavior immediately and is often delivered by someone in a position of power.
Word relationships
- reprimand: Reprimand is highly formal and often written, whereas a rebuke is usually spoken, immediate, and sharp.
- reprove: Reprove is gentler and more educational, while rebuke is sharper and more direct.
- praise: Praise is to express approval, while a rebuke is a sharp, immediate expression of disapproval.
Commonly confused with
- chide: Chide is a soft, gentle, and playful scolding, while rebuke is a sharp, serious, and authoritative correction.
Word family
- rebukingly (adverb): In a sharp, disapproving manner.
Collocations
- sharp rebuke
- stern rebuke
- rebuke the claims
Example sentences
- "The chairperson had to rebuke the board member for interrupting the guest speaker." A professional correction in a meeting.
- "In the biblical narrative, the teacher turned to rebuke the storm, commanding the winds to be still." A historical religious context.
Memory hook
Think of a 're-buke' as a 're-boot' for someone's bad behavior. You are hitting the button to shut them down immediately. Beat back bad behavior with a rebuke.
When not to use
Do not use for long, drawn-out, emotional screaming matches; a rebuke is typically swift, sharp, and concise.
Fun facts
- The French root 'buchier' (to cut wood) is also related to the word 'butcher'—the person who chops meat.
Explore more words
repudiate, remonstrate, call out, opprobrium, rebut, obloquy
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