Castigation Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ”ฅ
Add to dictionary

castigation

[หŒkรฆstษชหˆษกeษชสƒษ™n ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

formal

Severe criticism or punishment.

Synonyms

condemnation, criticism, rebuke, reproach.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
castigation

Used in a formal context with a strong sense of harsh and severe criticism, often by an authority figure.

  • The professor's castigation of the student's work was unexpected and harsh.
  • The media's castigation of the politician damaged his reputation significantly.
criticism

Used in general contexts to indicate disapproval or the act of pointing out faults, can be mild to severe.

  • Her criticism of the project was constructive and helped it improve.
  • The film received a lot of criticism for its weak storyline.
condemnation

Often used to express strong disapproval, especially in moral or ethical contexts, and typically implies a judgment.

  • The community's condemnation of the corrupt official was unanimous.
  • The human rights organization's condemnation of the actions of the regime drew significant international attention.
rebuke

Usually used to describe a sharp or stern reprimand, often in a less formal context compared to 'castigation'.

  • He received a rebuke from his boss for missing the deadline.
  • She didn't expect such a harsh rebuke for her minor mistake.
reproach

Used when expressing mild to moderate disapproval or disappointment, often in personal or informal contexts.

  • Her mother looked at her with reproach for staying out late.
  • He felt a sense of reproach when his friend was disappointed with his decision.

Examples of usage

  • The editorials were full of castigation for the politicians involved in the scandal.
  • The teacher's castigation of the student's behavior was harsh but necessary.
  • The castigation from the public was swift and unforgiving.
  • The castigation from her parents left her feeling ashamed and remorseful.
  • The castigation of his actions by his peers was a wake-up call for him.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • In behavioral psychology, criticism like this can help reinforce lessons, guiding individuals toward better choices.
  • Recognizing the difference between constructive feedback and harsh punishment is crucial for effective learning.

Literature

  • The term appears in various literary works to illustrate moral lessons or critique societal norms through character actions.
  • In many narratives, characters face castigation, serving as pivotal moments for their personal development.

Cultural Perspectives

  • Different cultures view punishment and criticism through varying lenses; some emphasize public castigation as a deterrent.
  • In some societies, the emphasis is placed on community-based correction rather than individual punishment.

Education

  • Educational theories suggest that constructive criticism can foster growth and help learners overcome mistakes.
  • Teachers often use feedback (a form of castigation) to guide students, differentiating between helpful and harmful approaches to correction.

Origin of 'castigation'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'castigatio', meaning 'to chastise or correct', showing a historical link to discipline.
  • Its roots connect to 'castigare', which means 'to make pure' or 'to correct', highlighting its purpose in improving behavior.

The word 'castigation' has its origins in the Latin word 'castigatio', which means 'correction' or 'reproof'. Its use in English dates back to the 16th century. Over the years, 'castigation' has evolved to represent not only correction but also severe criticism or punishment. The word has been commonly used in formal contexts to denote strong disapproval or reprimand.


See also: castigate.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #32,482 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.