Chasten

To chasten means to correct or restrain someone, often through punishment or discipline, in order to improve their behavior or character. It can also refer to the act of softening or refining something, such as a spirit or appearance, through adversity or hardship. The aim of chastening is to bring about a positive change, teaching a lesson or promoting greater self-control. It implies a degree of severity, but ultimately with a constructive purpose, fostering humility and self-improvement.

Chasten meaning with examples

• The stern headmaster chose to chasten the unruly students with a week of extra study sessions, hoping to teach them the value of discipline and respect. This experience was intended to improve their conduct in class and with their peers.
• Her life's hardships were said to have chastened her, making her more compassionate and understanding of others' struggles, because she was taught by life's hardships and found humility as a result.
• The coach had to chasten the team after their poor performance by making them run extra laps. This was done to motivate them. Their poor performance had made them lack energy in the game.
• Critics chastened the play for its excessive length, suggesting it needed significant cuts to hold the audience's attention. Their goal was to help improve it. This resulted in the play being more appealing and successful.
• The severe economic downturn chastened the company's spending habits, causing them to be far more cautious and cost-conscious in their future business decisions. This helped protect them.