Chide: meaning, definitions and examples

Chide is used to indicate mild disapproval, often in a gentle or good-natured manner. Suitable for familiar or friendly situations.

• She chided him for forgetting to call her back.
• The teacher chided the students for being late to class.

Rebuke indicates strong disapproval or criticism, often in an official or authoritative context. It can carry a stern or harsh tone.

• The manager rebuked the employees for their poor performance.
• He was rebuked by his parents for coming home late.

Reprimand is used to formally criticize someone, often in a work or official environment. It implies a formal statement of disapproval.

• The officer was reprimanded for misconduct.
• Her boss issued a reprimand for missing the deadline.

Admonish is used to warn or advise someone against their actions, often with a tone of serious concern. It is less severe than a reprimand but still denotes disapproval.

• The doctor admonished him to reduce his sugar intake.
• She admonished her kids not to play near the street.

Reprove is similar to admonish but might carry a slightly lighter tone. It is used to gently scold someone and usually focuses on criticizing behavior rather than the person.

• She reproved him for his carelessness.
• The coach reproved the team for not following the game plan.