reprocheren

Reprocheren is a Dutch verb meaning to reproach, to express disapproval or blame toward someone for a particular action or behavior. It is a transitive verb that typically takes a person as the recipient of the reproach and a reason or action as the cause. In use, it often carries a moral or corrective nuance and can be aimed at a colleague, a subordinate, or a public figure, among others.

Etymology and origin: The word is a Dutch borrowing from the French verb reprocher, meaning to reproach. The French term itself ultimately traces back to Latin roots related to blame. In Dutch, reprocheren has become a standard way to describe formal or strong criticism directed at someone for an error, fault, or shortcoming.

Usage and nuance: Reprocheren signals more than casual criticism; it implies fault and a demand for accountability. It is more formal or emphatic than everyday phrases like “verwijten” (to blame) or “kritiek uiten” (to express criticism). Common constructions include someone reprocheert someone for a specific action or shortcoming. The verb is generally not used reflexively to describe blaming oneself; voor that sense Dutch more often uses phrases such as verwijten oneself or zich iets aandoen.

Alternatives and registers: Synonyms include afkeuren, verwijten, berispen, or kritiek leveren. Reprocheren is most likely to appear in formal or literary contexts, journalism, or when a deliberate, moralizing tone is intended.

See also: Verwijten, afkeuren, berispen, kritiek leveren.