tongue lashing
Severe spoken reprimand
A tongue lashing is a severe verbal scolding or reprimand.
The image is of words striking like a whip: She gave him a tongue lashing he wouldn't forget.
The term emphasizes harshness and intensity—not mere criticism but a thorough dressing-down.
Also spelled tongue-lashing.
- castigationSevere verbal criticism
- scoldingHarsh verbal criticism
- upbraidingCriticizing someone sharply
- chewing outSevere verbal rebuke
- invectiveAbusive denunciation
harangue · censure · diatribe · verbal abuse · harsh words · rebuke · reprimand · denunciation · chastisement · admonishment · lambasting · raking over the coals · criticism · reproof · earful · vilification · malediction · slap down
tongue lashingpraise
Expression of approval
commendation · compliment · accolade · tribute · laudation
tongue lashingencouragement
Support spurring continued effort
reassurance · pep talk · constructive criticism · heart-to-heart · affirmation
tongue lashingsweet nothings
Affectionate but meaningless utterances
terms of endearment · warm embrace · gentle murmur · soft words · heartfelt thanks
tongue, lashing, tongues, tongued, tongueless, lash, lashes, lashed, lasher