Definition

1. Noun:

   • An act or expression of criticism and censure: A formal or official expression of disapproval, typically for a fault or misdeed.

2. Verb:

   • To censure severely or angrily: To express sharp disapproval or criticism of someone, often in a formal or authoritative manner.
   • To rebuke formally: To criticize someone officially for something they have done wrong.

Usage Examples

• Noun:

  • The manager issued a formal reprimand for the safety violation.
  • He received a written reprimand that was placed in his personnel file.

• Verb:

  • The teacher reprimanded the student for talking during the exam.
  • The committee reprimanded the officer for his conduct.

Advanced Usage

• "to be subject to reprimand": to be liable to receive official criticism.

  • Employees who break the rules are subject to reprimand.

• "a stern/severe reprimand": a very serious and harsh criticism.

  • The judge's stern reprimand made the lawyer apologize immediately.

Variants and Related Words

• Reprimanding (adj/n): The act of giving a reprimand.
  • His reprimanding tone was unmistakable.

Synonyms

• Rebuke: A sharp, stern disapproval.
• Censure: Strong criticism or official disapproval.
• Admonish: To warn or reprimand someone firmly.
• Reproach: To express disapproval or disappointment.

Related Phrasal Verbs

(Note: "Reprimand" is not commonly used in phrasal verb constructions. The action is typically expressed directly.)

Related Idioms

• "A slap on the wrist": A mild reprimand or punishment.
  • The fine was just a slap on the wrist for such a serious offense.

Noun

1. an act or expression of criticism and censure
   • he had to take the rebuke with a smile on his face

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
2. rebuke formally