Give somebody a mouthful

usgb
verb

To scold or criticize someone harshly.

John was late for work again, so his boss gave him a mouthful.
Visual representation of "give somebody a mouthful" - To scold or criticize someone harshly.

Often appears as...

  • give somebody a mouthful for being late
  • give somebody a mouthful for making mistakes

Usage tips

Informal

Colloquial

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "give somebody a mouthful"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Strong Emotions

The phrase often expresses anger or frustration toward someone's actions or behavior.

Illustration for Strong Emotions
After damaging the car, Tom got a mouthful from his father.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Confrontational Context

Used when confronting someone about something they've done wrong, underscoring the severity of the scolding.

Illustration for Confrontational Context
She gave me a mouthful when I forgot to lock the door.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Sudden Outburst

Often describes a sudden or unexpected scolding, catching the listener off guard.

Illustration for Sudden Outburst
My coach gave me a mouthful right in the middle of the game.
Visual representation of the word "Give somebody a mouthful"

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