Definition

1. Noun:
   • A severe scolding: A formal or strongly worded rebuke; the act of criticizing someone angrily and severely for a fault or mistake.

Usage

• Used as a countable noun, typically in singular form, to describe the act or instance of harsh criticism.
• Often follows verbs like "give," "receive," or "deserve."
• Can be modified by adjectives indicating intensity (e.g., "severe," "harsh," "public").

Examples

• Noun:
  • The manager's upbraiding of the team for their poor performance was heard throughout the office.
  • She received a stern upbraiding from her teacher for not submitting the assignment.
  • His public upbraiding by the committee made him reconsider his actions.

Advanced Usage

• "to be in for an upbraiding": to be likely to receive a severe scolding.
  • After breaking the window, he knew he was in for an upbraiding from his parents.
• "to deliver an upbraiding": to give a severe scolding formally or forcefully.
  • The principal delivered a sharp upbraiding to the students involved in the vandalism.

Variants and Related Words

• Upbraid (verb): to scold or criticize severely.
  • She upbraided him for his constant tardiness.
• Upbraider (noun): a person who scolds or criticizes severely. (Less common)

Synonyms

• Reprimand: A formal expression of disapproval.
• Rebuke: An expression of sharp disapproval or criticism.
• Censure: Strong criticism or disapproval, often formal or official.
• Dressing-down: (Informal) A severe scolding or reprimand.

Antonyms

• Commendation: Praise or approval.
• Compliment: A polite expression of praise or admiration.
• Acclaim: Enthusiastic and public praise.

Related Phrases

• A tongue-lashing: (Idiomatic) A severe scolding or criticism.
  • The coach gave the players a real tongue-lashing after the loss.
• A piece of one's mind: (Idiomatic) To express one's anger or disapproval frankly and forcefully.
  • She gave him a piece of her mind about his irresponsible behavior.

Noun

1. a severe scolding