Choose the most appropriate synonym of the following underlined word:
She reproached him gently for forgetting their anniversary.
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 2
The correct answer is Option (2) → berated
Reproach means to tell someone that you are unhappy with what he or she has done, to blame or criticise. She blamed him, gently, for forgetting the anniversary. Its synonym is berated.
Example: His mother reproached him for wasting money.
| Word | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|
| (1) advised | to suggest what someone should do (it carries no blame) | The doctor advised him to rest. |
| (2) berated (answer) | to scold or criticise someone angrily (both words mean finding fault with someone, and berate is the stronger word) | The coach berated the players for their careless defence. |
| (3) expected | to think that something will happen | We expected the train to arrive on time. |
| (4) instructed | to tell someone to do something, or to teach (it is an order, not blame) | The teacher instructed the students to remain seated. |
| Synonyms of reproach: berate, rebuke, reprimand, admonish Antonyms of reproach: praise, commend, applaud, compliment Also asked in CUET (UG): reproach – 22-05-2023 Slot 1 berate – 03-06-2025 Slot 1 |