English vocabulary
Chastise
/tʃæsˈtaɪz/ · v.
To chastise someone is to tell them very strongly that they did something wrong. You make it clear that their actions are not okay.
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Example sentences
- The chef chastised him for wasting food.
- She chastised herself after burning dinner.
Word origin and roots
from Old French
- chastiier — correct (from Old French)
Synonyms and nuances
- REBUKE — a strong critical response (Express sharp disapproval)
- REPRIMAND — an authority corrects misconduct (Give an official warning)
- SCOLD — angry words about bad behavior (Tell someone off)
Similar words
- rebuke
- reprimand
- scold
- censure
- admonish
Lesson notes
To chastise someone is to tell them very strongly that they did something wrong. You make it clear that their actions are not okay.
Related: rebuke, reprimand, scold. Use chastise when someone is sharply told off.
The chef chastised him for wasting food. She chastised herself after burning dinner.
From Old French. Chas-tee-er- means correct. Stern words correct a wrong: that is chastise.