Decry: Definition and Part of Speech
Decry is a verb used to express strong disapproval or denunciation of something. It often involves speaking out against perceived faults, wrongs, or injustices in an emphatic manner.
Core Synonyms (Table Format)
| Synonym | Brief Definition/Nuance | Example Sentence | Style/Register |
|---|---|---|---|
| Condemn | Strong disapproval, often implying a formal judgment. | “The committee condemned the unethical practices.” | Formal/Official |
| Denounce | To publicly criticize or express strong disapproval, especially in moral terms. | “He denounced corruption during his speech.” | Formal/Public |
| Criticize | Expressing disapproval based on perceived faults or mistakes. | “She criticized the policy for being ineffective.” | Informal/Formal |
| Blame | Assign responsibility for a fault or wrong, often implying culpability. | “Many people blame the company for the environmental damage.” | Casual/Informal |
| Censure | An official reprimand or expression of disapproval, especially in formal contexts. | “The senator faced censure from his peers.” | Formal/Legal |
Usage Notes
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Condemn: Often used in legal or moral discussions to imply a strong judgment. It is suitable for contexts where formal disapproval or reprobation needs to be expressed.
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Denounce: This synonym is ideal when the act of speaking out is public and vehement, often seen in political or ethical discourses.
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Criticize: A versatile term that can fit both casual and formal contexts. It implies pointing out faults without necessarily implying a moral judgment or formal reprimand.
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Blame: More informal than other synonyms, it often conveys assigning fault rather than expressing disapproval or critique.
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Censure: Typically used in official or legislative contexts to describe an expression of formal disapproval by authority figures or bodies.
Common Pitfalls
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Denounce vs. Condemn: While both involve strong disapproval, denouncing usually involves a public declaration against wrongdoing, whereas condemning can be more about moral judgment and doesn’t always require a public statement.
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Criticize vs. Blame: Criticizing focuses on pointing out faults or mistakes, while blaming assigns responsibility for those faults.
Final Recap
The primary synonyms of “decry” include condemn, denounce, criticize, blame, and censure. Each carries nuances that make them more appropriate in specific contexts—whether formal, public, or informal settings. Practicing these words in various scenarios will help deepen understanding and improve effective communication. To reinforce learning, try constructing sentences using each synonym, and reflect on the subtle differences in their meanings and connotations.