What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
recriminating
Example
The couple spent the entire evening recriminating each other for their past mistakes. [recriminating: verb]
Example
There was a lot of recriminating going on during the meeting, with everyone trying to shift the blame. [recrimination: noun]
reproach
Example
She reproached him for not keeping his promise. [reproached: verb]
Example
He felt a sense of reproach from his colleagues after his mistake cost the company money. [reproach: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Reproach is more commonly used than recriminating in everyday language. Reproach is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while recriminating is less common and refers to a specific type of conflict.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between recriminating and reproach?
Both recriminating and reproach are formal words that are typically used in serious or professional contexts. However, recriminating may have a slightly more confrontational tone that makes it less appropriate for very formal situations.
