Definition of Rebuke
Quick Meaning of Rebuke
To tell someone firmly and clearly that what they did was wrong; to give them a serious, disapproving criticism.
Detailed Definition of Rebuke
To express sharp, usually formal disapproval of someone for their actions or behavior; to reprimand.
How to Pronounce Rebuke
Stress pattern: oO (2-syllable word).
Tip: Stress the second syllable: rih-BYOOK. The 'u' sound is long as in 'boot', and the final 'e' is silent.
Watch out: Some learners stress the first syllable (REB-yook) instead of the second, or mispronounce the vowel sound. Say: rih-BYOOK.
Origin and Etymology of Rebuke
From Old French 'rebuke', meaning to reproach or beat back. 'Re-' (back) + Old French 'buche' (blow). Entered English in 15th century as a formal term of disapproval.
How to Use Rebuke in a Sentence
Each example shows “rebuke” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
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“The principal rebuked the students for their disrespectful behaviour in the assembly.”
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“The international community rebuked the nation for violating human rights agreements.”
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“Her supervisor rebuked her for missing the deadline without prior notification.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Rebuke
Common Synonyms for Rebuke
Smart Synonyms for Rebuke — When to Use Each
- reprimand
- Similar formality; emphasizes official disciplinary action
- admonish
- More gentle; warns or advises against something
- reproach
- Emphasizes moral disappointment or disapproval
Common Collocations with Rebuke
These phrases pair with “rebuke” in everyday English:
- rebuke someone for
- be rebuked
- publicly rebuked
- sharply rebuked
- rebuke behaviour
Common Mistakes When Using Rebuke
Even fluent speakers slip up with “rebuke”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: He rebuked for his mistakes.
- ✓ Correct: He was rebuked for his mistakes. / Someone rebuked him for his mistakes.
- Why: Rebuke needs an object (the person being rebuked). Use passive voice if needed.
- ✗ Wrong: The teacher rebuked the students their poor performance.
- ✓ Correct: The teacher rebuked the students for their poor performance.
- Why: Use 'for' to introduce the reason for the rebuke, not a direct object.
- ✗ Wrong: She rebuked him politely about his comment.
- ✓ Correct: She rebuked him for his comment. / She gently criticized his comment.
- Why: 'Rebuke' is inherently sharp disapproval; 'politely rebuked' is contradictory. Use 'criticized' for gentler tone.
Other Forms of Rebuke
Frequently Asked Questions About Rebuke
What is the meaning of "Rebuke"?
To tell someone firmly and clearly that what they did was wrong; to give them a serious, disapproving criticism.
How do you pronounce "Rebuke"?
The IPA is /rɪˈbjuːk/. Stress the second syllable: rih-BYOOK. The 'u' sound is long as in 'boot', and the final 'e' is silent.
What part of speech is "Rebuke"?
"Rebuke" is a verb at C1 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Rebuke"?
Common synonyms include criticize, reprimand, reproach.
How do you use "Rebuke" in a sentence?
For example: "The principal rebuked the students for their disrespectful behaviour in the assembly."