call on the carpet

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Definition
  1. Verb (transitive):
    • To reprimand, scold, or censure someone severely, typically in an angry or formal manner. The phrase implies a summons for a reprimand, as if one is called before an authority figure to be criticized for a mistake or misdeed.
Usage
  • This phrasal verb is used to describe the act of formally or angrily criticizing someone for their actions. It often carries a connotation of a superior addressing a subordinate. It is generally used in informal or semi-formal contexts.
Examples
  • Verb:
    • The manager had to call the employee on the carpet for repeatedly missing deadlines.
    • After the financial error was discovered, the director called the entire department on the carpet.
    • He was called on the carpet by his parents for coming home after curfew.
Advanced Usage
  • The phrase often implies a one-sided reprimand where the person being criticized has little opportunity to defend themselves.
  • It can be used in passive voice constructions (e.g., "to be called on the carpet").
Variants and Related Words
  • Carpet (verb): In British informal usage, "to carpet" someone means to reprimand them severely.
    • Example: He was carpeted by the headmaster for his behaviour.
Synonyms
  • Reprimand: To express formal disapproval of someone's actions.
  • Scold: To angrily criticize someone, especially a child.
  • Rebuke: To express sharp, stern disapproval.
  • Dress down: (Informal) To scold or reprimand someone.
  • Chew out: (Very informal) To scold harshly.
Related Phrasal Verbs
  • Call out: To publicly criticize or challenge someone.
    • Example: She called him out for his hypocrisy.
  • Tell off: (Informal) To scold or reprimand someone angrily.
    • Example: His teacher told him off for talking in class.
Related Idioms
  • Give someone a piece of one's mind: To express one's anger or disapproval to someone directly and forcefully.
    • Example: After the rude comment, she gave him a piece of her mind.
  • Rake someone over the coals: To criticize or reprimand someone severely.
    • Example: The committee raked him over the coals for the budget oversight.
Verb
  1. censure severely or angrily
    • The mother scolded the child for entering a stranger's car
    • The deputy ragged the Prime Minister
    • The customer dressed down the waiter for bringing cold soup

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