What does reproval mean?
Reproval means strong disapproval or censure, especially when directed toward a person’s conduct, motives, or actions. The word is formal and somewhat literary, so it commonly appears in editorial writing, historical accounts, institutional statements, and descriptions of an emphatic moral judgment. Unlike more neutral terms such as criticism, reproval carries a distinctly condemnatory tone and often implies that the behavior being judged is seriously objectionable. It can refer either to the expression of disapproval or to the disapproval itself: a public statement may “meet with reproval,” while a stern look may convey reproval without words. Although still readily understood, reproval is less frequent in ordinary conversation than words such as blame or disapproval. Its particular value is that it conveys a more deliberate, authoritative, and often public form of condemnation.
nounReproval is the expression of strong disapproval or censure of someone’s conduct, actions, or ideas. It can also refer to the attitude or feeling of condemnation itself.
- Strong disapproval or censure directed at a person, an action, or conduct.
"The chairman’s reproval of the misconduct was unequivocal."
"The newspaper’s editor expressed reproval of the government’s decision."
"She looked at him with quiet reproval, then turned away."
The plural is grammatically standard but uncommon in present-day English.
"The speech drew immediate reprovals from several members of the council."
Reproval has long carried the idea of a formal, unmistakable verdict against conduct that is considered wrong.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does reproval come from?
Reproval developed in late Middle English from Old French reprover, a word meaning “to disapprove,” with the noun formed on the model of French and English derivations. Old French reprover came from Latin reprobare, literally “to disapprove” or “reject,” formed from re-, meaning “back” or “again,” and probare, “to test, examine, or approve.” The same Latin family produced English cognates including approve, reprove, proof, and reprobate.
How reproval is actually used
Reproval is formal and relatively uncommon in modern everyday English. It often suggests an authoritative or openly expressed condemnation rather than mild criticism.
Easily confused with reproval
Reproval is a noun meaning disapproval or censure, whereas reproof can be a noun meaning blame or a verb meaning to criticize.