tongue-lash: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C2 / Low FrequencyLiterary / Formal / Journalistic
Quick answer
What does “tongue-lash” mean?
To rebuke, scold, or reprimand someone severely and harshly with words.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
To rebuke, scold, or reprimand someone severely and harshly with words.
A verbal assault characterized by a sustained, fierce, and often angry torrent of criticism or reprimand.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in meaning. Slightly more likely to appear in UK press or literary contexts, but the term is relatively rare in both.
Connotations
Connotes a forceful, dramatic, and often eloquent verbal attack. More severe than simply 'telling off'.
Frequency
Very low frequency in spoken language. Found more in written narratives, news reports, or formal descriptions of conflict.
Grammar
How to Use “tongue-lash” in a Sentence
[Subject] tongue-lashes [Object][Subject] tongue-lashes [Object] for [Reason/Act]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “tongue-lash” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The headmaster proceeded to tongue-lash the entire sixth form for their poor behaviour.
- The editor tongue-lashed the reporter for the factual errors in the story.
American English
- The coach tongue-lashed the team at halftime for their lack of effort.
- The senator was publicly tongue-lashed by her colleagues for the controversial vote.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare. Might be used in a report: 'The CEO tongue-lashed the board for the failed merger.'
Academic
Very rare. More likely in literary or historical analysis.
Everyday
Extremely rare. Most speakers would use 'tell off', 'scold', or 'shout at'.
Technical
Not used.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “tongue-lash”
- Using it as a noun more than a verb (e.g., 'He gave a tongue-lash' is possible but less common than 'He tongue-lashed them').
- Confusing it with 'tongue-tied' (unable to speak).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is a low-frequency word, used mostly in writing (news, literature) and formal speech to describe a severe scolding.
Yes, the noun form 'tongue-lashing' is slightly more common than the verb. E.g., 'He received a stern tongue-lashing.'
'Tongue-lash' implies greater severity, force, and often a public or dramatic dimension. 'Scold' is more general and less intense.
Almost never in casual conversation. Native speakers would typically use 'tell off', 'shout at', 'chew out' (US informal), or simply 'scold'.
To rebuke, scold, or reprimand someone severely and harshly with words.
Tongue-lash is usually literary / formal / journalistic in register.
Tongue-lash: in British English it is pronounced /ˈtʌŋ læʃ/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈtʌŋ ˌlæʃ/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “[not the primary idiom]”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine a tongue acting like a whip (a lash), striking someone with sharp, painful words.
Conceptual Metaphor
ANGER IS A PHYSICAL FORCE / VERBAL ATTACK IS PHYSICAL ASSAULT (the tongue is a weapon).
Practice
Quiz
What is the closest synonym for 'tongue-lash' in a formal context?