Definitions

teach a lesson

VERB

punish

Synonyms

STRONGEST

abuse chastise correct crack down on discipline dismiss execute expel fine harm hurt incarcerate sentence

STRONG

batter beat blacklist castigate chasten cuff debar defrock exile flog immure injure lash lecture maltreat misuse oppress paddle reprove scourge spank switch train whip

WEAK

attend to beat up do in give a going over give the works knock about rap knuckles rough up slap wrist throw the book at

Antonyms

STRONGEST

aid assist benefit compliment help preserve welcome

STRONG

boost guard lose praise protect surrender

WEAK

award exonerate let go reward

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

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teach a lesson

As sensational as they could be, most of them were made to didactically teach a lesson of some sort.

From Salon ● Jun. 22, 2026

Iranian parliamentary speaker Mohammad Ghalibaf responded on X that Iran's armed forces were "ready to respond and to teach a lesson for any aggression".

From BBC ● May 13, 2026

You may write to relay an event, to teach a lesson, or to explore an idea.

From Textbooks ● Dec. 21, 2021

“I didn’t want to sound preachy or like I was trying to teach a lesson in an ‘Afterschool Special.’

From Washington Post ● Oct. 27, 2021

I wished Mr. Mann would actually do his job and teach a lesson, or at least pay attention to the class.

From "Keep It Together, Keiko Carter" by Debbi Michiko Florence

teach a lesson

Example Sentences

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