To be tongue-lashed is to be severely criticized or reprimanded verbally. It implies a harsh and often lengthy scolding, expressing strong disapproval of one's actions or behavior. The criticism is usually direct, pointed, and delivered with considerable vehemence. The recipient of the tongue-lashing is often left feeling humiliated, ashamed, and perhaps even fearful of the consequences of their actions. The term highlights the power of spoken words to inflict emotional distress and the forceful nature of the verbal attack.
Tongue-lashed meaning with examples
- After arriving late to the presentation, the project manager tongue-lashed Sarah in front of the entire team, emphasizing the unprofessionalism of her tardiness and its disruption to the schedule. This public scolding left Sarah mortified and determined never to be late again. The reprimand's severity served as a powerful deterrent.
- The chef tongue-lashed the kitchen staff after discovering that the orders were incorrect, highlighting the impact on customer satisfaction. The subsequent scolding addressed the importance of accuracy and attention to detail. The harsh words made sure that the lesson would be learned, the intensity of the message lingering in the air.
- The teacher tongue-lashed the students who were caught cheating on the exam, stressing the ethical implications of academic dishonesty and the damage it caused to the integrity of their education and how it affected their futures. The verbal dressing-down aimed to impress upon the children the importance of integrity.
- The mother tongue-lashed her child for using hurtful language towards his siblings, emphasizing the importance of kindness and respectful communication within the family. This harsh lecture ensured the child understood the negative consequences of unkind speech. Her words would, hopefully, instill empathy.
Tongue-lashed Synonyms
admonished berated castigated chastised lambasted lectured rapped rebuked reprimanded scolded upbraidedTongue-lashed Antonyms
applauded commended complimented encouraged forgiven lauded pardoned praisedTongue-lashed Crossword Answers
6 Letters
FLAYED
9 Letters
REAMEDOUT