What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
chastise
Example
The teacher chastised the student for not completing their homework. [chastised: past tense verb]
Example
He was chastised by his boss for being late to work again. [chastised: past participle]
reprimand
Example
The manager gave him a reprimand for his unprofessional behavior. [reprimand: noun]
Example
She was reprimanded by her teacher for talking during class. [reprimanded: past tense verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Reprimand is more commonly used than chastise in formal and professional settings, while chastise is more commonly used in informal or everyday situations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between chastise and reprimand?
While reprimand is associated with a formal and official tone, chastise is less formal and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
