upbraid
Censure with words
Upbraid means to scold or criticize someone sharply for a fault or wrongdoing.
The word carries a tone of moral reproach—you upbraid someone not just for making a mistake but for doing something you consider blameworthy.
She upbraided him for forgetting their anniversary.
The coach upbraided the team for their lack of effort.
Upbraid is somewhat formal and literary; in everyday speech, people are more likely to chew out or give someone an earful.
Criticize severely and lengthily
- admonishReprove with counsel
- chideRebuke mildly
- reprimandFormal expression of disapproval
- scoldRebuke harshly
censure · castigate · lambaste · excoriate · objurgate · reprove · lecture · harangue
Reprimand severely for wrongdoing
- disciplineTrained self-control or specialty
- correctFree from error
- admonishReprove with counsel
- counselExpert guidance offered
warn · caution · sermonize · moralize · preach · exhort · enjoin · instruct
berate
Criticize severely and lengthily
scold · censure · castigate · lambaste · excoriate · objurgate · reprove · lecture · harangue · take to task
chastise
Reprimand severely for wrongdoing
- disciplineTrained self-control or specialty
- correctFree from error
- admonishReprove with counsel
counsel · warn · caution · sermonize · moralize · preach · exhort · enjoin · instruct · guide
denounce
Publicly declare wrongdoing
blame · decry · disparage · impugn · pillory · assail · attack · slate · pan · knock
humiliate
Cause painful shame
demean · degrade · abase · chasten · humble · abash · put down · shame · dishonor · belittle