Definition

1. Verb:
   • To reprimand, scold, or criticize someone severely for a fault or misbehavior. It implies a formal or stern rebuke intended to correct.
   • (Archaic) To punish physically, especially by beating.

Usage and Examples

• Verb:
  • The teacher chastised the student for cheating on the exam.
  • He was chastised by the committee for his unprofessional conduct.
  • (Archaic) In the old tale, the king chastised the traitor with a whip.

Advanced Usage

• "to chastise someone for something": This is the most common construction, specifying the reason for the reprimand.
  • The manager chastised the team for missing the deadline.
• "to chastise oneself": To criticize or blame oneself severely.
  • She chastised herself for forgetting the important meeting.

Variants and Related Words

• Chastisement (noun): The act of chastising; severe criticism or punishment.
  • His public chastisement was humiliating.
• Chastiser (noun): A person who chastises.
  • He was a harsh chastiser of any mistake.

Synonyms

• Reprimand: To scold or criticize formally.
• Rebuke: To express sharp disapproval.
• Berate: To scold or criticize angrily.
• Admonish: To warn or reprimand firmly but kindly.
• Castigate: (Formal) To criticize severely.

Antonyms

• Praise: To express warm approval or admiration.
• Commend: To praise formally or officially.
• Applaud: To show approval by clapping or praising.

Related Phrases and Idioms

• "To be on the receiving end of a chastisement": To be the one who is severely criticized.
  • After the failed project, he was on the receiving end of a severe chastisement from the board.

Verb

1. censure severely
   • She chastised him for his insensitive remarks