Castigate: meaning, definitions and examples

Typically used in formal or serious settings to describe harsh criticism or punishment, often involving moral or ethical judgment.

• The teacher castigated the student for cheating on the exam.
• The politician was castigated by the media for his unethical behavior.

Functions as a formal and strong expression of disapproval, usually verbal and often used in professional or authoritative contexts.

• The manager rebuked the employee for missing the deadline.
• The principal rebuked the students for breaking school rules.

Used to describe a formal and often official scolding or expression of disapproval, commonly seen in professional or disciplinary contexts.

• The employee received a written reprimand for his tardiness.
• The officer reprimanded the soldier for insubordination.

Often used in slightly less severe contexts than 'castigate', usually involving verbal criticism, and can imply scolding or reprimanding. It sometimes carries a somewhat old-fashioned or formal tone.

• The coach chastised the players for their poor performance.
• She chastised her son for neglecting his chores.

This word is typically used in formal situations where someone is being criticized severely, usually for moral or ethical failures.

• The manager was known to castigate employees publicly if they made mistakes
• The author castigated the government in his latest article

This is a general term used for inflicting a penalty or consequence for wrongdoing, applicable in various contexts such as parenting, education, and law.

• The teacher will punish students who cheat on exams
• The criminal was punished for his crimes

This word is used in situations involving formal punishment or penalties, often in legal, sports, or organizational contexts.

• The company was penalized for violating safety regulations
• The referee penalized the player for a foul

Used in contexts where there is an aim to train or correct behavior, often with a focus on self-control and training.

• Teachers discipline students to help them develop better study habits
• Good parents use discipline to teach their children respect and responsibility