chiding

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Word: Chiding

Part of Speech: Verb (present participle form of "chide")

Definition: Chiding means to criticize or scold someone in a gentle or friendly way. It involves expressing disapproval or disappointment, but often in a less harsh manner than a serious reprimand.

Usage Instructions:

• Chiding is used when someone is pointing out a mistake or bad behavior, but in a way that is not too severe. It can be seen as a form of correction that is meant to help rather than just punish.

Example:

• "The teacher was chiding the student for not doing his homework, but she did it with a smile, hoping to encourage him to try harder next time."

Advanced Usage:

• Chiding can also be used in more formal contexts, like in literature or speeches, where the speaker wants to convey a sense of gentle rebuke.

Word Variants:

• Chide (verb): To scold or rebuke someone mildly.
• Chided (past tense): The past form of chide.
• Chides (present tense): The present form of chide.

Different Meanings:

• While "chiding" typically refers to a gentle reprimand, it can sometimes carry a tone of teasing, depending on the context.

Synonyms:

• Scolding
• Rebuking
• Reproaching
• Admonishing
• Berating (this is stronger than chiding)

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

• There are no specific idioms directly related to "chiding," but phrases like "give someone a talking-to" can imply a similar meaning.
• A related phrasal verb could be "talk down to," which means to speak to someone in a way that shows you think they are less intelligent or capable.

Summary:

"Chiding" is a gentle way of scolding someone, often used to express disappointment but still show care.

Academic

Noun

1. rebuking a person harshly

Synonyms

• scolding
• objurgation
• tongue-lashing