chastise
What does "chastise" mean?
To "chastise" means to rebuke or reprimand someone severely, typically for a mistake or poor behavior. The mental image is that of a stern authority figure—like a strict teacher or a disappointed parent—delivering a sharp, formal correction to ensure the person understands the gravity of their error. While it is a powerful word, it is quite formal and often sounds a bit old-fashioned or elevated compared to "scold" or "tell off." It is frequently used in professional or literary contexts to describe a formal reprimand rather than a casual argument. You might be "chastised" by a boss for a major oversight or by a critic for a poorly executed project.
"chastise" in conversation
Workplace feedback
I had to chastise the team for the errors in the quarterly report.
I had to chastise the team for the errors in the quarterly report.
Was it really that bad?
Was it really that bad?
Used here to emphasize the severity of the professional reprimand.
Strict parent
Do not think I won't chastise you if you break curfew again.
Do not think I won't chastise you if you break curfew again.
I get it, I'll be home on time.
I get it, I'll be home on time.
Highlights the authoritative and warning tone of the word.
"chastise" in a sentence
The teacher chastised the student for talking during the exam.
The teacher chastised the student for talking during the exam.
The editorial chastised the government for its failure to act during the crisis.
The editorial chastised the government for its failure to act during the crisis.
He felt chastised by his father's cold, silent disapproval rather than by his spoken words.
He felt chastised by his father's cold, silent disapproval rather than by his spoken words.
