told off

VERB

reprimand; criticize harshly

Synonyms

WEAK

berate censure chide give piece of one's mind give tongue-lashing lecture rail rake over the coals rebuke reproach reprove revile scold take to task tick off upbraid vituperate

Antonyms

WEAK

compliment praise

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.

I did all the same tests as everyone else, got told off when I didn't do my homework, and socialised with my friends like anyone else.

From BBC • Jan. 9, 2026

But things took a dramatic turn at a pre-pageant ceremony early this month, when Mr Nawat told off Miss Mexico, Fatima Bosch, in front of dozens of contestants for failing to post promotional content.

From BBC • Nov. 20, 2025

Adrien was just sitting there, like a teenager being told off in a principal’s office.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 5, 2025

"I would just daydream, do nothing, and I'd probably get told off a bunch."

From BBC • Dec. 3, 2024

Like how the cold air feels like nothing when you’ve just stood your ground and told off the whole debate club.

From "The Benefits of Being an Octopus" by Ann Braden