denounce - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
denounce Word Meanings
- to publicly declare something to be wrong
- to inform against someone
- to criticize or condemn openly
denounce Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
denounce Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/dɪˈnaʊns/
US
/dɪˈnaʊns/
denounce Word Etymology
de- = down from + nounce = announce. Latin → Old French → English. Imagine a whistleblower standing up and pointing to wrongdoing while denouncing it before a crowd.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I plant my feet, square my shoulders, and push a breath through my chest. I move from the quiet to my voice, turning toward the issue and letting the words land. My hands tremble a little, I hold the moment, and I name what I think is wrong in a clear, public way. The room shifts—some people frown, others nod, and the act of denouncing feels like taking a firm stand in the open.
Real Context
Denounce is a strong verb that means to publicly declare something you believe is wrong or dangerous, often in a formal or outspoken way. It can mean to condemn a policy, an action, or a person, and it can also mean to inform against someone by reporting suspected wrongdoing to authorities. The nuance is public and moral: you are making a statement that others should listen to and act on. Learners often confuse denounce with condemn, criticize, or report; denounce carries a sense of exposure and risk, and it usually appears in political, legal, or journalistic contexts. Use it when you want to draw clear, forceful attention to harm or injustice.
Usage Reminders
- - Use denounce for formal, public accusations.
- - Do not use it for casual criticism.
- - Distinguish denounce from condemn, criticize, or report.
- - Pair with specific targets like policies, actions, or people.
- - Often appears in news, politics, or legal contexts.
- - Check tone: it implies exposure and risk.
Common Misconceptions
- Confusing denounce with condemn; the former is public and moral, the latter is judgment or punishment.
- Assuming denounce can be used for private complaints or gossip.
- Thinking denounce means simply disagreeing; it implies public exposure of wrongdoing.
- Using denounce for vague or hypothetical accusations.
- Mistaking denounce for reporting to authorities only; it can target institutions or individuals publicly.
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker: denounce carries a public, moral charge and is common in political, legal, or journalistic contexts; learners often mix it with condemn or criticize.
Learning Tips
- 1) Memorize that denounce requires a public, often formal context.
- 2) Distinguish from condemn (moral judgment) and report (inform to authorities).
- 3) Pair with concrete targets: policies, actions, or people.
- 4) Practice with media-like sentences (press releases, debates).
- 5) Avoid using for casual disagreements or private talks.
- 6) Look for collocations like 'denounce publicly' and 'denounce as' for precision.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses 'denounce' correctly?
A.She denounce the delicious meal.
B.He denounce the peaceful protest.
C.The professor denounce the student's behavior.
D.They denounce the sunny weather.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'denounce'?
A.Criticize
B.Praise
C.Acclaim
D.Support
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'denounce'?
A.Endorse
B.Approve
C.Commend
D.Applaud
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life scenario of 'denounce'?
A.Criticizing a corrupt politician
B.Praising a good deed
C.Supporting a charity event
D.Applauding a dishonest action
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