Castigate

usgb/ˈkæstɪɡeɪt/
verb

To criticize someone severely.

The teacher castigated the student for not doing his homework.
Visual representation of "castigate" - To criticize someone severely

Often appears as...

  • castigate someone for
  • publically castigate

Usage tips

Formal, Disapproving

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "castigate"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Severity Level

'Castigate' indicates a very strong level of criticism that is more intense than simply suggesting improvement.

Illustration for Severity Level
The director castigated the actor for repeatedly forgetting his lines.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Emotional Weight

Using 'castigate' can carry an emotional impact, suggesting disappointment or disapproval from the speaker.

Illustration for Emotional Weight
The community castigated the council for ignoring environmental concerns.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Public vs Private

'Castigate' often implies that the criticism happens openly, in a public setting, not privately.

Illustration for Public vs Private
The official was publicly castigated for the scandal.
Visual representation of the word "Castigate"

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