Vocabulary word Recriminate - Practice with online flashcards, spelling bees and vocabulary quizzes

Behavior and Conduct

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Blame and Accusation

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SAT 17 (Scholastic Assessment Test)

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Dictionary Definition of recriminate

To respond to an accusation or criticism with a counter-accusation or counter-criticism.
"He refused to recriminate and instead tried to focus on finding a solution to the issue."

Detailed Meaning of Recriminate

It involves a back-and-forth exchange where parties involved in a dispute or conflict accuse each other of wrongdoing in response to the initial allegations. This often leads to a cycle of mutual accusations and counter-accusations, intensifying the conflict and making it difficult to reach a resolution. "Recriminate" embodies the idea of retaliating against an attack by pointing out the faults or perceived wrongdoings of the accuser. It is a defensive reaction aimed at deflecting blame or diverting attention away from oneself by shifting it onto the other party involved in the disagreement.

Example Sentences for Recriminate

1. When faced with accusations, it is not helpful to recriminate, rather, seek understanding.
2. We shouldn't recriminate when mistakes happen, but instead learn from them.
3. When they began to recriminate, the conversation turned sour.
4. I implore you not to recriminate but to express your thoughts calmly.
5. When you recriminate, it only escalates the situation, not resolve it.
6. It's easy to recriminate when things go wrong, but it's rarely productive.

Origin and Etymology of Recriminate

The verb 'recriminate' has its etymological roots in Latin. It is derived from the Latin word 'recriminare,' which is a combination of 're-' (back) and 'criminari' (to accuse). In English, 'recriminate' describes the act of responding to an accusation or criticism with a counter-accusation or counter-criticism. It implies a back-and-forth exchange of accusations or blame between parties involved in a dispute or conflict. 'Recriminate' is often used in situations where one party seeks to defend themselves or deflect blame by accusing the other party of similar or related wrongdoing. It highlights the tit-for-tat nature of disputes and arguments, where each side points fingers at the other in an attempt to shift responsibility or undermine the credibility of their opponent.

Quiz Question - Test Your Understanding

Find the correct meaning of the verb recriminate:

retaliate

forgive

absolve

pardon

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Correct!

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More Usage Examples of Recriminate

1. Instead of working to find a solution, they would rather recriminate.
2. It's not enough to just recriminate, we need to find solutions.
3. Try not to recriminate when discussing serious matters.
4. It's disheartening to see how quickly they recriminate instead of apologizing.
5. We tend to recriminate in defense, but it often leads to more conflict.
6. They didn't offer any solutions, all they did was recriminate.
7. Do you think it's right to recriminate every time something goes wrong?
8. If you choose to recriminate, you'll only prolong the conflict.
9. We need to learn how to communicate effectively and not just recriminate.
10. Parents should teach their children not to recriminate, but to reflect and learn.
11. Instead of helping, all you do is recriminate.
12. It's disconcerting how quickly people recriminate rather than express understanding.
13. She has a tendency to recriminate, which hinders effective communication.
14. If we can learn not to recriminate, we can foster a more positive environment.