self-reproach
self-rih-PROHTCH
/ˌsɛlf rɪˈproʊtʃ/
Blame or criticism directed at oneself.
Focuses on internal dialogue where an individual criticizes their own actions or failings.
The story behind the word. Self-reproach combines Old English 'self' with the Old French 'reprocher', which meant 'to bring back close'—metaphorically dragging past mistakes right back in front of your face to criticize yourself.
Word relationships
- self-condemnation: Self-condemnation is stronger and more final, whereas self-reproach is ongoing internal fault-finding.
- self-congratulation: Self-congratulation means praising oneself for achievements.
Commonly confused with
- self-approach: Self-approach is an ungrammatical construct, whereas self-reproach means criticizing oneself.
Word family
- reproach (verb): to express disapproval or disappointment
- self-reproachful (adjective): expressing or feeling blame toward oneself
Collocations
- bitter self-reproach
- filled with self-reproach
- wave of self-reproach
Example sentences
- "After missing the warning signs of her business failure, she was consumed by bitter self-reproach." Psychological reflection
Memory hook
REPROACH is bringing bad actions back in RE-PROXIMITITY to criticize yourself. Bringing your own mistakes back to accuse yourself.
When not to use
Do not use when criticism comes from outside observers; self-reproach is strictly internal.
Fun facts
- The base verb 'reproach' originally meant bringing an object back into proximity so you could inspect its flaws closely.
Related words
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