What does reprove mean?
Reprove is a formal verb with two related but distinguishable uses. Most commonly, it means to prove again or to show that a claim, argument, or statement is false; in this sense, it is close to “disprove” and “refute,” but often carries a suggestion that the evidence is decisive or that a previous conclusion has been overturned. It can also mean to criticize or reprimand someone, especially for a mistake or improper conduct. This second use is somewhat literary and sounds more severe than a casual “tell off,” but less forceful than “denounce” or “condemn.” Reprove is relatively uncommon in modern conversation, though it remains useful in formal writing, legal and historical contexts, and discussions of evidence or criticism. Its history also links it to the wider family of English verbs built on the Latin root probare, “to test or prove.”
To prove again, especially to show that a claim, statement, or argument is false.
"The reviewer reproved the author's claim with evidence from contemporary records."
This use is formal and literary; “refute” is more common in neutral modern usage.
To criticize or reprimand someone for a fault or error.
"The judge reproved the witness for failing to answer the question directly."
This use is formal and less common in everyday speech than “reprimand” or “tell off.”
Reprove carries a double charge: it can undo a false claim with evidence, or let a person know, firmly but briefly, that they have been wrong.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does reprove come from?
Reprove is formed in English with the prefix re-, meaning “again,” and the base prove. The underlying Latin verb probare meant “to test” and developed through Old French into English prove, meaning “to test, establish, or demonstrate.” The prefixed form appears in English in the Middle English period and originally carried the sense of testing or proving again. Its later meanings—disproving and criticizing—developed from the idea of testing a statement or person and finding fault.
Related word forms
How reprove is actually used
In its sense of criticism, reprove is formal and more common in writing than in everyday speech. When it means to disprove something, it is somewhat literary and can suggest a thorough or renewed demonstration.
Easily confused with reprove
Refute primarily means to disprove an argument or claim, whereas reprove can also mean to criticize or reprimand a person.
Reprove is the verb meaning to disprove or criticize, while reproof is a noun meaning criticism or a reprimand.