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.

She explains that children often lie instinctively as a form of self-protection to avoid being told off and adults may also lie automatically in moments of panic.

From BBC • Jan. 13, 2026

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

"I felt like I was being told off," Celyn recalled of one conversation with another officer.

From BBC • Sep. 23, 2024

Professor McGonagall ignored them, which Harry thought was distinctly unfair, as she had just told off him and Ron.

From "Harry Potter And The Goblet Of Fire" by J. K. Rowling