Upbraiding Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐
upbraiding
[สpหbreษชdษชล ]
Definition
criticizing someone
Upbraiding refers to the act of scolding or reproaching someone severely. It often implies a strong expression of disapproval or criticism. The term is typically used when the reprimand is delivered with intensity, highlighting the gravity of the mistake or behavior in question. This word can convey both the speaker's frustration and the seriousness of the issue being addressed.
Synonyms
admonish, chide, rebuke, reprimand, scold.
Examples of usage
- The teacher was upbraiding the student for not completing the assignment.
- During the meeting, the manager upbraided his team for missing the deadline.
- She upbraided her friend for lying to her repeatedly.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Literature
- Upbraiding is often found in classic literature, where characters express harsh judgments, such as in Shakespeareโs plays to highlight moral dilemmas.
- In novels, the act of upbraiding serves as a plot device, revealing the conflicts between characters and providing dramatic intensity.
- Many authors use upbraiding to showcase relationships, demonstrating power dynamics between parent and child or authority figures.
Psychology
- Upbraiding can lead to heightened emotional responses, often causing stress or anxiety in those on the receiving end.
- Psychologically, being upbraided can affect self-esteem, leading individuals to feel inadequate or defensive.
- Studies suggest that constructive criticism, instead of upbraiding, often leads to better outcomes and personal growth.
Cultural Perspectives
- In some cultures, direct confrontation and upbraiding are seen as necessary for maintaining social norms and correcting behavior.
- Conversely, in cultures that value harmony, upbraiding may be viewed negatively and is often avoided in favor of more subtle forms of correction.
- The manner and intensity of upbraiding vary significantly across cultures, reflecting different societal attitudes towards authority and accountability.
Media
- In films and television, upbraiding scenes can be pivotal, creating tension or leading to character development.
- Reality TV often showcases dramatic upbraiding, eliciting viewer reactions and engagement as conflicts unfold on screen.
- Social media has provided a platform for upbraiding in public, where individuals may be critiqued harshly, showing the evolution of public behavior.
Origin of 'upbraiding'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from Middle English 'upbreiden', which means to reproach or scold.
- Its roots can be traced back to Old English 'up' (up) and 'bregdan' (to braid or to pull), thus giving the sense of weaving together criticisms.
- The term has been used in literature dating back to the 14th century, emphasizing its longstanding presence in the English language.
The word 'upbraiding' originates from the Old English term 'upbraid,' which combines 'up' and 'braid.' The prefix 'up' generally intensifies the meaning of the root word. 'Braid' derived from the Old Norse word 'brวฝรฐa,' meaning 'to reproach' or 'rebuke.' Over time, the term has evolved in English to reflect a more forceful and critical reprimand. The concept of scolding has been a part of human communication for centuries, emphasizing the importance of social norms and accountability. Today, 'upbraiding' is often used in formal contexts or literature, highlighting its serious tone and the weight of the criticism being expressed.