What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
reprove
Example
The teacher reproved the student for cheating on the test. [reproved: past tense verb]
Example
She gently reproved her friend for being late to the meeting. [reproved: past participle verb]
scold
Example
The mother scolded her child for breaking the vase. [scolded: past tense verb]
Example
He was scolded by his boss for being late to work. [scolded: past participle verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Scold is more commonly used than reprove in everyday language.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between reprove and scold?
Reprove is more formal and polite than scold, making it more appropriate for professional or academic settings.
