Translation guide
Expressing disapproval or disappointment, from mild criticism to strong blame.
To tell someone they have done something wrong, in a direct or indirect way.
The most common verb for scolding or reproaching someone, typically used by a superior (parent, teacher, boss) to a subordinate.
My mother reproached me for being late.
To blame or reproach someone, often with a stronger emotional tone. Can be used between equals.
He reproached me for his own mistake.
To criticize or reproach, often in a formal or public context. Implies pointing out faults.
The newspaper reproached the government's response.
To reproach or find fault with, often for a minor offense. Can sound literary or old-fashioned.
He reproached me for my small mistake.
To show that someone's actions have upset you, often in a personal relationship.
To complain or express dissatisfaction, often used in everyday situations. Can be a mild reproach.
He always reproaches me about my cooking.
To look at someone with reproach, conveying disappointment non-verbally.
The particle のに at the end of a sentence can express 'if only' or 'even though', implying reproach for an unfulfilled expectation.
If only you had told me earlier (reproach).
To express that you blame yourself for something.
To say that something is a disgrace or brings reproach.
To say someone or something cannot be criticized.
English often uses 'reproach' as a noun (e.g., 'a look of reproach'), but Japanese rarely uses a single noun equivalent. Instead, use verb phrases or descriptive expressions like 責めるような目 (reproachful look).
叱る (shikaru) implies a scolding from a position of authority (parent to child, boss to subordinate). 責める (semeru) is more about blaming or accusing, and can be used between equals or even towards oneself. 非難する (hinan suru) is formal and often public criticism.
She reproached him for forgetting their anniversary.
His conduct is above reproach.
She looked at me with reproach.
The scandal became a reproach on his career.