reprimanded by

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "reprimanded by" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it when indicating who has given a reprimand to someone. Example: "She was reprimanded by her supervisor for being late." Alternative expressions include "scolded by" and "criticized by."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

He was reprimanded by the BBC.

The Guardian

The star was reprimanded by producers for using homophobic language.

Independent

For that, he has been reprimanded by his agency.

The New York Times

(Francis himself told Spadaro he had been "reprimanded" by critics).

The New Yorker

Afterward, Cavett was reprimanded by a network executive.

The New Yorker

(The superior was later reprimanded by the Brotherhood).

The New Yorker

(She was reprimanded by the principal for upstaging the playwright).

The New Yorker

They were reprimanded by the listing agent for doing so.

The New York Times

He was later reprimanded by the C.I.A.'s inspector general's office.

The New Yorker

I've been reprimanded by my children's primary school for the way that I look.

Independent

(I mistakenly wandered into her bathroom in the bungalow and was reprimanded by two staff members).

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "reprimanded by", ensure the context clearly indicates the authority figure or entity doing the reprimanding and the reason for the reprimand. This adds clarity and credibility to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "reprimanded by" when the intended meaning is the opposite, such as being "rewarded by". Double-check your phrasing to ensure you're conveying the correct meaning of criticism or disapproval, not praise or recognition.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "reprimanded by" functions as a passive construction, indicating that someone has received a formal rebuke or censure from an authority figure. Ludwig provides numerous examples demonstrating this usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Wiki

14%

Science

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "reprimanded by" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase to indicate that someone has received a formal rebuke. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is commonly found in news and media, wiki articles, and scientific publications, suggesting a neutral to formal register. When employing this phrase, it's crucial to clearly specify who is doing the reprimanding and the reason behind it. For alternative expressions, consider "scolded by" or "criticized by" to match the tone and context of your writing. Avoid confusing it with terms that convey approval or reward.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Scolded by

Emphasizes a milder form of disapproval or criticism.

Admonished by

Suggests a formal and serious warning or rebuke.

Rebuked by

Implies a sharp disapproval or criticism, often publicly.

Criticized by

Indicates disapproval based on perceived faults or errors.

Censured by

Indicates a formal expression of disapproval, typically by an official body.

Taken to task by

Highlights being held accountable and criticized for a mistake or wrongdoing.

Reproved by

Suggests a gentle and kindly expression of disapproval.

Reproached by

Emphasizes disappointment and mild disapproval.

Chided by

Conveys a gentle or playful form of scolding.

Called out by

Emphasizes being publicly confronted or criticized for an action or statement.

FAQs

How can I use "reprimanded by" in a sentence?

Use "reprimanded by" to indicate that someone received a formal expression of disapproval from a person or entity in authority. For example: "The employee was reprimanded by the manager for consistent tardiness."

What are some alternatives to "reprimanded by"?

Alternatives include "scolded by", "admonished by", or "criticized by", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it grammatically correct to say "reprimanded by"?

Yes, "reprimanded by" is grammatically correct. It follows the standard passive voice construction, where the subject receives the action of being reprimanded.

What's the difference between "reprimanded by" and "criticized by"?

"Reprimanded by" typically implies a formal or official rebuke, often from someone in a position of authority. "Criticized by", on the other hand, suggests a more general expression of disapproval, which may not necessarily be formal or authoritative.