scold you

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "scold you" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to the act of reprimanding or criticizing someone for their behavior or actions. Example: "If you continue to ignore the rules, I will have to scold you for your actions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

50 human-written examples

"Have you done anything wrong?" / "Do you feel like you have done anything wrong to deserve their scoldings?" If they insult you, hurt your feelings, scold you when it's not your fault, then try explaining to them that it's not your fault.

WikiHow

(We won't scold you for coveting).

The New York Times

If you're not, they scold you.

The Guardian

People scold you, also not understand".

The New York Times

And I'm not here to scold you about how you don't practice your short game enough.

The New York Times

The spouse who may scold you for doing the wrong thing.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

8 human-written examples

"You scold and you sometimes scream at your kids," Robinson said.

The New York Times - Sports

But if you scold him, you will come across not as his caring wife, but as his shaming mother.

Huffington Post

My words seem more like a mother scolding you.

The New York Times

In scolding you, was I perhaps correcting myself a long generation ago? "Perhaps" is simply rhetoric.

The New Yorker

When a Japanese prime minister scolds you for passivity, you know you're practically a zombie.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "scold you" when you want to convey a sense of mild reprimand or correction, often from a position of authority or care. Consider the context and audience to ensure the tone is appropriate.

Common error

Avoid using "scold you" in highly formal or professional settings. Opt for more neutral or formal alternatives such as "reprimand you" or "address your conduct" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "scold you" primarily functions as a verb phrase, where "scold" is the verb and "you" is the object. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used. The function is to indicate a form of reprimand.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Wiki

36%

Science

16%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "scold you" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression for indicating a mild reprimand or correction. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and common usage across various contexts, primarily in News & Media and Wiki sources. While the phrase is versatile, it is important to consider the context and audience. In more formal settings, alternatives like "rebuke you" or "reprimand you" may be more appropriate. Understanding the nuances of "scold you" allows for more effective communication and helps avoid misinterpretations in diverse social and professional environments.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Rebuke you

More formal and direct; implies a strong disapproval.

Reprimand you

Suggests a formal and official rebuke, often in a professional context.

Admonish you

Gentler and more advisory than "scold"; it aims to correct gently.

Chide you

A mild and affectionate form of scolding, often between family members.

Lecture you

Implies a longer, more formal and educational scolding.

Berate you

A harsh and prolonged scolding, often with anger.

Give you a dressing-down

An idiomatic expression for a severe scolding.

Tell you off

Informal expression for scolding someone.

Give you a talking-to

Suggests a serious conversation with the intent to correct behavior.

Disapprove of you

Expresses a negative judgment without direct verbal correction.

FAQs

What does "scold you" mean?

To "scold you" means to reprimand or criticize you, usually for a minor offense or mistake. It implies a mild form of disapproval.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "scold you"?

The phrase "scold you" is appropriate in informal contexts, such as between family members, friends, or in less formal workplace interactions. It's often used when the reprimand is intended to be corrective rather than punitive.

What can I say instead of "scold you"?

You can use alternatives like "rebuke you", "reprimand you", or "admonish you", depending on the context and the level of formality required.

Is "scold you" grammatically correct?

Yes, "scold you" is grammatically correct. It follows the standard subject-verb-object order in English. However, its appropriateness depends on the context and desired tone.