Definition

1. Verb:
   • To reprimand or scold someone, typically in a sharp or severe manner: "brush down" means to criticize or rebuke someone for their behavior, often implying a thorough or harsh telling-off.

Usage

• The verb "brush down" is used transitively and typically in informal contexts. It describes the act of giving someone a verbal reprimand.
• It often carries a connotation of the reprimand being direct, perhaps delivered in a single, forceful instance, similar to the brisk action of brushing something off.

Examples

• Verb:
  • The manager brushed down the employee for missing the deadline.
  • After the careless mistake, she was brushed down by her coach.

Advanced Usage

• "to give someone a brush-down": This noun phrase refers to the act or instance of reprimanding someone.
  • He received a severe brush-down from the principal for his actions.

Variants and Related Words

• Brush-off (n): A rejection or dismissal of someone or something, often in an abrupt or offhand manner. (Note: This is a different idiom with a distinct meaning).
  • She gave his proposal the brush-off.

Synonyms

• Reprimand: To express formal disapproval of someone's actions.
• Tell off: To scold or reprimand someone angrily.
• Chide: To scold or rebuke mildly.
• Rebuke: To express sharp disapproval or criticism.

Related Phrasal Verbs

• Brush off: To dismiss or ignore someone or something casually.
  • He tried to apologize, but she just brushed him off. (Note: This is distinct from "brush down").

Related Idioms

• To come under fire: To be subjected to severe criticism.
  • The new policy came under fire from the public.
• To get a dressing-down: To receive a severe scolding or reprimand. This is a close synonym in meaning and tone to "brush down."
  • He got a real dressing-down from his father for coming home late.

Verb

1. reprimand
   • She told the misbehaving student off