Re·prove v. t. [imp. & p. p. Reproved p. pr. & vb. n. Reproving.]
1. To convince. [Obs.]
When he is come, he will reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment. --John xvi. 9.
2. To disprove; to refute. [Obs.]
Reprove my allegation, if you can. --Shak.
3. To chide to the face as blameworthy; to accuse as guilty; to censure.
What if thy son
Prove disobedient, and, reproved, retort,
“Wherefore didst thou beget me?” --Milton.
4. To express disapprobation of; as, to reprove faults.
He neither reproved the ordinance of John, neither plainly condemned the fastings of the other men. --Udall.
Syn: -- To reprehend; chide; rebuke; scold; blame censure.
Usage: -- Reprove, Rebuke, Reprimand. These words all signufy the expression of disapprobation. To reprove implies greater calmness and self-possession. To rebuke implies a more excited and personal feeling. A reproof may be administered long after the offience is committed, and is usually intended for the reformation of the offender; a rebuke is commonly given at the moment of the wrong, and is administered by way of punishment and condemnation. A reprimand proceeds from a person invested with authority, and is a formal and offiscial act. A child is reproved for his faults, and rebuked for his impudence. A military officer is reprimanded for neglect or violation of duty.
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reproving
adj : expressing reproof or reproach especially as a corrective
[syn: admonitory, admonishing, reproachful]