talking-to

The manager gave the employee a stern talking-to about punctuality.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • A reprimand or scolding: "talking-to" refers to a verbal rebuke or criticism given to someone, typically for a mistake or misbehavior. It is an informal term used in everyday conversation.
   • A serious conversation: It can also mean a firm or stern discussion aimed at correcting or advising someone.

Usage Examples

• (He received a stern scolding for his lateness.)
• (The manager reprimanded the employee verbally.)
• (She scolded her son for the accident.)

Advanced Usage

• "to give someone a talking-to": to reprimand or scold someone.
  • The teacher gave the students a talking-to for talking during the exam. (The teacher scolded them for their behavior.)
• "to receive a talking-to": to be scolded or rebuked.
  • He received a talking-to from his boss after missing the deadline. (He was reprimanded for his failure.)

Variants and Related Words

• Talk (verb): to speak or converse.
  • We need to talk about your behavior. (To discuss something.)
• Talk (noun): a conversation or discussion.
  • We had a long talk about the project. (A discussion.)
• Talking (noun): the act of speaking.
  • The constant talking in the library was distracting. (The act of speaking.)

Synonyms

• Scolding: a harsh verbal reprimand.
  • She gave the child a scolding for running in the street. (A reprimand.)
• Reprimand: a formal expression of disapproval.
  • The officer received a reprimand for his conduct. (A formal scolding.)
• Lecture: a long, serious talk intended to correct behavior.
  • He got a lecture on responsibility from his father. (A lengthy scolding.)
• Rebuke: a sharp criticism.
  • Her rebuke was brief but effective. (A sharp reprimand.)

Phrasal Verbs

• Talk to: to speak to someone, especially to reprimand or advise.
  • I need to talk to my son about his grades. (To have a serious conversation.)
• Talk down to: to speak condescendingly.
  • He always talks down to his younger brother. (To treat as inferior.)

Related Idioms

• Give someone a piece of one's mind: to express strong criticism or anger.
  • She gave him a piece of her mind after he forgot her birthday. (She scolded him severely.)
• Read the riot act: to give a severe warning or reprimand.
  • The coach read the riot act to the team after their poor performance. (He scolded them harshly.)