C1verb formal 10K+

Denounce

UK //dɪˈnaʊns// US //dɪˈnaʊns// Pronunciation

Definition

To publicly declare that something is wrong or evil.

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In simple words: To publicly express strong disapproval of something or someone.

Examples

• The activist decided to denounce the government's unfair policies.
• Many leaders took to social media to denounce the recent acts of violence.
• The professor's article denounced the misinformation spreading about climate change.
• She felt it was her duty to denounce the unethical practices in the industry.
• The report denounces the harmful effects of pollution on health.

Usage notes

Use 'denounce' in formal contexts, such as politics or law. Avoid informal situations where a softer phrase might be better.

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Grammar pattern

denounce + object

Memory hint

Think of 'denounce' as 'de-nounce' – saying no to something loudly.

Collocations

• denounce violence
• denounce corruption
• denounce injustice

Synonyms

• condemn
• criticize
• censure
• rebuke
• denigrate

Antonyms

• praise
• endorse
• support

Common mistakes

• Confused with 'announce'; they mean different things.
• Using 'denounce' without a clear subject or object.
• Overusing 'denounce' in casual conversations.