What does recriminatory mean?
Recriminatory describes language or conduct that turns on accusation and blame, especially when someone responds to criticism by attacking the critic. The word is especially useful for describing a hostile exchange in which each party alleges wrongdoing by the other rather than attempting to clarify facts or resolve the disagreement. It has a formal, often literary tone and generally implies that the behavior is bitter, retaliatory, and unproductive. Recriminatory exchanges are common in adversarial political debate, personal disputes, and legal arguments. Because the term carries a clear evaluative force, it should generally be reserved for conduct that genuinely displays mutual accusation rather than ordinary disagreement or forceful criticism.
adjectiveCharacterized by recrimination, especially as a way of retaliating against criticism or accusation. It describes words or behavior that seek to counter accusations by accusing others in return.
- Characterized by or expressing retaliatory accusations against someone.
- Characterized by bitter mutual blame or criticism.
"Instead of addressing the criticism directly, he launched a recriminatory attack against his accusers."
"The discussion deteriorated into a recriminatory exchange, with both participants denying responsibility."
"Rather than offer a constructive response, the minister made a recriminatory speech about the reporter's motives."
Recriminatory language is argument at its most circular: each side answers an accusation with an accusation of its own.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does recriminatory come from?
The word comes from the Latin root crimin-, meaning “accuse” or “charge,” combined with the prefix re-, suggesting accusation directed back against someone. The related verb recriminate means to accuse someone in return, especially in response to a charge or criticism. The adjective recriminatory developed from this verbal sense and is especially associated with retaliatory or mutually hostile accusation.
Related word forms
How recriminatory is actually used
The word is formal and usually carries a strongly negative connotation. It is most appropriate when emphasizing accusation, reproach, or retaliation rather than merely criticism. It can describe rhetoric, exchanges, attitudes, or behavior.
Easily confused with recriminatory
Recriminatory is the usual adjective for expressing retaliatory accusations, whereas recriminative is less common and can describe the act or process of recrimination.