# decried

/dɪˈkɹaɪd/ (US) · /dɪkɹˈaɪd/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/decried
Updated: 2026-10-16

## Definition

to say in public that something is bad or wrong. You use it when leaders or critics strongly criticize an action or idea.

For teachers: to condemn or denounce publicly as bad, harmful, or morally wrong. Typically applied to policies, practices, or public statements.

## Examples

- Many parents decry violence in children's cartoons.
- The mayor decried the cuts to bus services at last night's meeting.
- Critics decried the novel's ending as rushed, though readers continued to praise its sharp dialogue and vivid setting.

## Synonyms

condemn, denounce, censure, criticize, deplore

## Antonyms

praise, commend

## Usage notes

- The verb is transitive and takes a direct object, often followed by 'as' to state the criticism.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.