Admonish

To admonish is to warn or reprimand someone firmly. It involves expressing disapproval or criticism, often with a view to correcting behavior or preventing further mistakes. The act of admonishing implies a sense of authority, responsibility, or concern on the part of the speaker. It's more than just casually suggesting a change; it's a serious communication intended to influence the recipient's actions. Admonishments can range in tone, from a gentle reminder to a stern lecture, but the core intent is to guide or correct through verbal instruction. The goal is often to prevent negative consequences or to promote better conduct in the future. The context of the relationship between the speaker and the receiver significantly impacts how an admonishment is received and interpreted.

Admonish meaning with examples

• The teacher **admonished** the students for their disruptive behavior during the assembly, reminding them of the school's rules of conduct and the importance of respect. She was firm but fair in her communication, hoping the students would listen, learn, and never repeat their mistakes. Ultimately, this action was meant to enforce the school's expectations.
• Before leaving for the dangerous expedition, the experienced guide **admonished** the team to stay together, to be careful about the approaching weather conditions, and to follow his directions precisely to ensure their survival. This included specific instructions about safety protocols for mountain climbing. Without this warning, they would likely experience more dangers.
• After finding his son playing with fire, the father **admonished** him, explaining the potential dangers of such behavior and the risk of serious injury or property damage. The father sought to teach and protect his son, as well as deter any similar activities in the future. The son understood his father's disapproval.
• The concerned neighbor **admonished** the owners of the dilapidated house about the neglect and disrepair of the property, which was becoming an eyesore and a potential safety hazard for the neighborhood. The neighbor hoped the advice might persuade the owners to take care of their home.
• The coach **admonished** the team after their disappointing performance, emphasizing the need for greater effort, teamwork, and discipline in future practices and games. The coach's speech was an attempt to turn the team's outlook around and teach them valuable lessons that they could apply to their sports.