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castigate

English → EnglishformalliteraryInstant · from the shared dictionary
Illustration of "castigate": To castigate someone is to reprimand or criticize them with extreme severity. The mental image is th

What does "castigate" mean?

To castigate someone is to reprimand or criticize them with extreme severity. The mental image is that of a stern authority figure, such as a judge or a strict schoolmaster, delivering a harsh, formal scolding to correct a perceived moral failing or a significant error. This word is significantly stronger than "scold" or "criticize." It implies a sense of moral indignation or a formal disciplinary action. You will most often see it used in formal writing, political discourse, or legal contexts, rather than in everyday casual conversation between friends.

"castigate" in conversation

Workplace disciplinary meeting

I have to castigate you for the lack of transparency in your latest report.

I have to castigate you for the lack of transparency in your latest report.

I understand the gravity of the oversight, sir.

I understand the gravity of the oversight, sir.

Used here to emphasize the seriousness of a professional failure.

Political commentary

The senator did not hesitate to castigate his opponent for the budget cuts.

The senator did not hesitate to castigate his opponent for the budget cuts.

It was a very biting and public rebuke.

It was a very biting and public rebuke.

Commonly used in journalism to describe sharp verbal attacks.

"castigate" in a sentence

  1. The teacher castigated the student for cheating on the exam.

    The teacher castigated the student for cheating on the exam.

  2. The editorial castigated the government for its failure to address the housing crisis.

    The editorial castigated the government for its failure to address the housing crisis.

  3. He was castigated by his peers for his inflammatory remarks during the committee session.

    He was castigated by his peers for his inflammatory remarks during the committee session.

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