chide

USAGE SUMMARY

The word 'chide' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to mean to harshly criticize or rebuke someone for a fault or an offense. Example sentence: She chided him for not being more responsible.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Why did he chide them for following bloggers and radio talk-show hosts?

The Guardian

The chancellor would chide his officials, "Why does nobody come up with ideas for getting things done like Howard does".

The Guardian

When rivals, in turn, tried to buy GEC in the late 1980s, he parked key businesses in stodgy joint ventures with French, German and American companies to render them impregnable.Good at numbers, he was hopeless as a leader of people, being quick to chide and slow to praise.

The Economist

On the streets, Shia vigilantes chide unveiled women.

The Economist

Some chide the former prime minister for being an "actor" and attribute the disillusion of those Britons now flirting with UKIP to his and others' showmanship.

The Economist

In April Ratan Tata, the former boss of Tata, India's biggest conglomerate, had to chide the grumblers not to be "disillusioned so fast" with Mr Modi.It would be easier to believe talk of rapid growth if there were a stronger story of reforms to tell.

The Economist

She has even dared to chide as "revolutionaries" some senior DPP hands, implacably opposed to China.Still, although Ms Tsai's stance may well appeal to middle-of-the-road voters, it is unlikely to be accepted by China.

The Economist

Nietzsche confessed in 1880 that his existence was "a fearful burden", though he was at least happier than before, because of progress in his work.Feet of clay, indeed; but Mr Miller does not chide his dozen unduly.

The Economist

It might seem a bit rich for the state broadcaster of a secretive, authoritarian country to chide Baidu for murkiness.

The Economist

Presidents often seek their guidance, and chafe when they chide.

The Economist

The cardinal became the junta's leading critic, calling from his pulpit for the end of military rule and the return of democracy to Chile.The junta complained to the Vatican, but whatever Rome's own misgivings about the cardinal, it declined to chide him.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "chide" when you want to express disapproval or mild criticism, especially when someone has made a minor mistake or behaved inappropriately.

Common error

While "chide" is a valid word, avoid overusing it in highly formal or professional writing. Alternatives like "rebuke" or "reprimand" may be more appropriate depending on the context.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "chide" is as a verb, used to express disapproval or mild criticism. Ludwig examples show it used in sentences to indicate someone is correcting or expressing dissatisfaction with another's actions or behavior. Ludwig AI also confirms its correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Encyclopedias

7%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Science

2%

Wiki

1%

Social Media

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "chide" is a versatile verb used to express mild disapproval or gentle correction. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness. While prevalent in News & Media, and also being a correct word, its formality might vary, so consider using synonyms like "rebuke" or "reprimand" for more formal contexts. Ludwig examples show its usage in diverse sentences, reinforcing its applicability in expressing disapproval across different situations. Remember that, while correct, it's essential to assess the context and audience to ensure "chide" aligns with the intended tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

rebuke

Similar in meaning to "chide", but slightly more formal.

reprimand

Implies a formal or official expression of disapproval.

scold

Suggests a milder form of criticism, often directed at children.

admonish

To advise or warn gently, but firmly.

reproach

Expresses disapproval or disappointment.

berate

To criticize or scold angrily.

criticize

To express disapproval of someone or something based on perceived faults or mistakes.

lecture

To reprimand someone at length.

reprove

Similar to "reproach" but can also imply an attempt to correct.

take to task

To criticize or reprimand someone severely.

FAQs

How can I use "chide" in a sentence?

You can use "chide" to indicate a mild form of disapproval or gentle criticism. For example, "She chided him for his tardiness".

What are some alternatives to "chide"?

Alternatives to "chide" include "rebuke", "reprimand", "scold", or "admonish", depending on the level of formality and severity of the criticism.

Is it correct to use "chide" in formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "chide" may sound less formal compared to words like "rebuke" or "reprimand". Consider your audience and the tone you want to convey.

What's the difference between "chide" and "scold"?

"Chide" and "scold" are similar, but "scold" often implies a more emotional or parental tone, whereas "chide" can be more neutral and less intense.