reprimand someone

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "reprimand someone" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to the act of scolding or criticizing someone for their behavior or actions, typically in a formal context. Example: "The manager had to reprimand John for his repeated tardiness to work."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Imagine, for example, you are incited to reprimand someone in your family because you believe that he or she has acted irresponsibly by leaving a kitchen light on during the night.

SEP

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

I think there may be problems with individuals, but there is no way for them to be reprimanded unless someone speaks to the press.

The Guardian

A negative consequence will always lessen the chance that the behavior will be repeated, but the only time you should use a punishment or a reprimand is when someone is not doing--or incorrectly doing--something they already know how to do.

Science Magazine

That reprimand came from someone who suspects you of surreptitiously checking email or catching up on Facebook when you should be paying attention to what they are saying.

Huffington Post

"They want someone reprimanded," Ms. Porath says.

The New York Times

She said this colleague was reprimanded for calling someone "a fucking Libtard asshole" on Facebook, but was allowed to delete the post and keep his job.

Huffington Post

"You have to be visiting someone," a nurse reprimands her.

The New Yorker

Coaches for the Carolina Panthers have issued a similar edict and have been reprimanding any player who knocks someone to the ground.

The New York Times - Sports

But the actual, straightforward threats there was one I think that said something about 'stamping on his fucking face' or something then I think a case can be made that someone should be reprimanded for that".

Vice

We screw something up at work, we snap on someone we love, we get reprimanded, we trip on the sidewalk, we spill coffee on our shirts, we text a screenshot to the person you were screenshotting - we mess up.

Huffington Post

She would call someone whose payments had fallen behind, reprimand them in a professional way and create a schedule so that things could be straightened out.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "reprimand someone" when you want to indicate a formal or authoritative correction of behavior. Consider the context to ensure the tone is appropriate, as it implies a level of authority.

Common error

Avoid using "reprimand someone" in casual conversation. Opt for less formal alternatives like "scold" or "tell off" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

"Reprimand someone" functions as a verb phrase where "reprimand" is a transitive verb requiring a direct object (the person being reprimanded). The phrase describes the act of formally rebuking or correcting someone's behavior. As noted by Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically sound and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "reprimand someone" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase that signifies a formal act of correction or rebuke. As Ludwig AI confirms, its usage is widespread across various contexts, particularly in news and media, science, and formal business settings. While versatile, it is best suited for situations that warrant a degree of formality. Related phrases such as "scold someone" or "rebuke someone" offer varying levels of intensity and informality, providing writers with a nuanced palette for expressing disapproval. When in doubt, remember that this phrase is most effective when conveying authority and addressing specific misconduct.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

rebuke someone

Suggests a sharp disapproval or criticism, often implying a formal or authoritative setting.

scold someone

Implies a less formal and often milder form of reprimand, often used in domestic or informal settings.

admonish someone

Suggests a gentle or earnest reproof, often with the intention of warning or advising.

chastise someone

Indicates a severe reprimand or punishment, often for a serious offense.

reproach someone

Implies expressing disapproval or disappointment, often in a mild or gentle way.

censure someone

Suggests a formal and public expression of disapproval or condemnation.

lecture someone

Implies giving a lengthy and often tedious reprimand or warning.

take someone to task

Means to criticize or reprimand someone severely for a mistake or failure.

call someone on the carpet

Means to summon someone to be reprimanded, usually by a superior.

dress someone down

Implies giving a severe and humiliating reprimand.

FAQs

How to use "reprimand someone" in a sentence?

You can use "reprimand someone" in a sentence like, "The manager had to reprimand John for his repeated tardiness." It indicates a formal correction.

What can I say instead of "reprimand someone"?

You can use alternatives like "scold someone", "rebuke someone", or "admonish someone" depending on the context and level of formality.

Which is correct, "reprimand someone" or "reprimand at someone"?

"Reprimand someone" is the correct phrasing. The verb "reprimand" takes a direct object (the person being reprimanded) without the need for a preposition.

What's the difference between "reprimand someone" and "criticize someone"?

"Reprimand someone" implies a formal and authoritative correction, often for a specific offense. "Criticize someone", on the other hand, simply means to express disapproval, which can be less formal and less directly related to specific misconduct.