Words / C1

di-NOWNS/dɪˈnaʊns/

To denounce is to criticise someone or something publicly and strongly: denounce a contract, denounce a colleague as disloyal. Condemn is a close synonym; criticise is milder and everyday; slam is informal. Denunciation is the noun. In speech, come out against or slam is blunter. Denounce is public and often political. Do not use it for a private complaint to a manager — that is raise or report.

Meaning

To criticise someone or something publicly and strongly.

Examples

• “The union denounced the new contract.”
• “The union denounced the new contract at a packed meeting.”
• “He denounced the rumour in an open letter, which only spread it further.”

Good to know

Publicly and strongly condemn. Noun: denunciation. Everyday: criticise (milder). Close: condemn. Public/political; not a private grumble.

Near in meaning

condemn

New