reproof

Reproof is a mild expression of disapproval intended to correct another’s conduct or beliefs. It identifies a fault and urges the person to change, rather than condemning them as a bad person. Reproof can be delivered privately or publicly, though it is commonly presented in a respectful, non-abusive manner.

The term comes from the verb reprove, which itself has roots in Old French reprover and Latin reprobare. In practice, reproof encompasses a range from gentle admonition to more formal disciplinary statements, depending on context and relationship.

Religious and moral contexts frequently employ reproof as a form of instruction or correction. In many traditions, reproof is seen as a means by which individuals or communities are guided toward greater virtue or alignment with shared norms. In secular settings, parents, educators, and managers use reproof to address misconduct, hoping to encourage reflection and improvement rather than punishment alone.

Reproof differs from related terms: a rebuke often carries stronger force, whereas admonition emphasizes warning accompanied by guidance. Correction is a broader term for adjusting behavior, of which reproof is the communicative act of expressing disapproval. In literature and rhetoric, reproof may function as a device to reveal faults, prompt ethical consideration, or move characters toward growth.