censure
The definition for censure is "To find fault with." Used in a sentence: The critical teacher was quick to censure her students for even small mistakes.
extenuating
The definition for extenuating is "Partially excusing." Used in a sentence: The extenuating circumstance of Calvin's illness caused the teacher to excuse his lateness.
garish
The definition for garish is "Offensively bright." Used in a sentence: The garish wallpaper offended Jerome, who preferred subtle colors.
polarize
The definition for polarize is "To break up into opposing groups." Used in a sentence: Thelma tended to polarize discussions rather than to encourage compromise.
straddle
The definition for straddle is "To favor opposing sides." Used in a sentence: Kia straddled the issue, not wanting to say whether James or Tara was right.