Scold sb Meaning, Examples & How to Use This Phrasal Verb

What Does “Scold sb” Mean?

“Scold sb” means to speak angrily to someone because they have done something wrong or made a mistake.

Introduction

The phrasal verb “scold sb” is commonly used when someone, often a parent or teacher, expresses disapproval or criticism in a sharp or angry way. It usually happens when a person wants to correct another’s behavior. Understanding the “scold sb meaning” helps learners recognize when someone is being reprimanded or told off. This phrase is useful in everyday conversations, especially when discussing discipline or correction.

Quick Info Box

• Phrasal verb: scold somebody (sb)
• Type: transitive
• Level: A2 (Elementary to Pre-intermediate)
• Short meaning: to speak angrily to someone because they did something wrong

Structure (Grammar Rules)

“Scold sb” is a transitive phrasal verb, meaning it always needs a direct object (the person being scolded).

Structure patterns:

• Subject + scold + somebody
• Example: The teacher scolded the student.

This phrasal verb is inseparable; you cannot put the object between “scold” and “sb”.

How to Use Scold sb?

Use “scold sb” when you want to describe a situation where someone is being told off or reprimanded. It often implies anger or frustration in the tone. It is mostly used in informal or conversational English but can appear in written stories or reports.

Common subjects who scold others include parents, teachers, bosses, or friends. The object is the person being scolded.

Examples

When children make mistakes, parents often scold them to teach right from wrong.

• My mother scolded me for coming home late.
• The coach scolded the players for not trying hard.
• She scolded her little brother for breaking the vase.
• The teacher scolded the students for talking during the exam.
• He was scolded by his boss for missing the deadline.

These sentences show how to use “scold sb in a sentence” naturally.

Common Mistakes

People sometimes make mistakes when using “scold sb,” especially with the object’s placement or prepositions.

• Incorrect: She scolded at him.
• Correct: She scolded him.
• Incorrect: They scolded to the children.
• Correct: They scolded the children.

Remember, “scold” does not need a preposition before the object.

Differences / Synonyms

“Scold” is similar to verbs like “reprimand,” “tell off,” or “chide,” but each has subtle differences.

• Reprimand: more formal and official, often used in workplaces.
• Tell off: informal, similar meaning but more direct.
• Chide: old-fashioned or literary, softer than scold.

Use “scold” when you want to express angry or sharp criticism, usually in everyday speech.

Common Collocations

When using “scold sb,” it often pairs with certain common objects or situations.

• Children: Often scolded for misbehavior or mistakes.
• Students: Scolded for not paying attention or breaking rules.
• Employees: Scolded for errors or poor work.
• Pets: Sometimes scolded for bad behavior.

Real-life Dialogue

Imagine a mother talking to her son after he broke a window.

Mother: Why did you break the window?

Son: I was playing ball inside. I’m sorry.

Mother: I’m going to scold you because that was dangerous.

Practice

Complete the sentences with the correct form of “scold sb”:

• The teacher _______ the students for being late.
• My dad _______ me when I didn’t clean my room.
• She _______ her dog for making a mess.

Answers: scolded

FAQ

• Q: Can “scold” be used without an object?
  A: No, “scold” always needs an object (someone to scold).
• Q: Is “scold” formal or informal?
  A: It is mostly informal but can be used in formal contexts.
• Q: What is the difference between “scold” and “tell off”?
  A: “Tell off” is more informal and direct, while “scold” is a bit softer but still angry.
• Q: Can you say “scold someone for something”?
  A: Yes, you can say “scold someone for doing something.”
• Q: Is “scold” only used with children?
  A: No, it can be used with adults and pets too.