scold
word
Definition
To speak angrily to someone because they did something wrong or made a mistake.
Usage & Nuances
"Scold" is formal or neutral; more common for parents, teachers, or authorities. Usually about bad behavior or mistakes. In casual conversation, phrases like "tell off" or "yell at" may be used instead. Do not use "scold" for physical punishment.
Spanish: regañar - reprenderPortuguese (BR): repreender - dar bronca (informal)Portuguese (PT): ralhar - repreenderChinese (Simplified): 责骂 - 训斥Chinese (Traditional): 責罵 - 訓斥Hindi: डाँटना - फटकारनाArabic: يوبخ - يلومBengali: ঝাড় মারা - বকুনি দেওয়াRussian: ругать - отчитыватьJapanese: 叱るVietnamese: la mắng - quở tráchKorean: 혼내다 - 꾸짖다Turkish: azarlamak - paylamakUrdu: ڈانٹناIndonesian: menegur - memarahi
Example Sentences
My mother scolded me for being late.
basic
The teacher scolded the students for talking in class.
basic
Please don't scold the dog for making a mess.
basic
She scolded him in front of everyone, which embarrassed him a lot.
natural
You don't have to scold me; I already know I made a mistake.
natural
Every time I forget to do my chores, my dad scolds me.
natural