
Reprove
Mild Disapproval
Reprove is less harsh than scold and more about guiding than punishing.

She reproved him gently for arriving late.
Not Public
Reprove is often done in private to avoid embarrassing the person.

The manager reproved the employee in her office, not in front of the team.
Respectful Tone
The tone when reproving should be respectful and meant to help, not hurt.

His mentor reproved his conduct, suggesting better ways to approach the situation.
Compare with
AdmonishCensureChastiseCondemnCriticizeRebukeReprimandScoldUpbraid
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