Denounce

Verb

Definition: Publicly declare to be wrong or evil.

Definition: Inform against or accuse someone publicly.

Synonyms: Condemn, Criticize, Censure, Accuse, Expose

Antonyms: Praise, Commend, Endorse

Examples:

The activist denounced the government's policies as unjust.
She denounced her former associate to the authorities for illegal activities.

Mnemonics:

"Denounce" sounds like "denying ounces of truth" - publicly declaring something false or evil.
Imagine a news anchor denouncing a corrupt politician on live television.

Etymology:

Origin:

Middle English "denouncen", from Old French "denoncier", from Latin "denuntiare" (to announce)

Historical Usage:

The word "denounce" has been in use since the 14th century, retaining its core meaning of publicly declaring something wrong or evil.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"Denounce with a flourish"

Explanation:

To make a dramatic or exaggerated public declaration of disapproval.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Confusing "denounce" with "renounce".

Explanation:

"Denounce" involves publicly declaring something wrong or evil, while "renounce" involves giving up or formally abandoning something. These words have different meanings and should not be used interchangeably.