How to Memorize

upbraid - criticize

Analysis

To ‘upbraid’ somebody is to forcefully or angrily tell them that they should not have done something or that they have done something wrong. Unlike many of its synonyms, this formal word implies that the reproach was justifiable and deserved as opposed to an overreaction in the heat of the moment.

Example(s)

1. John was totally out of line in the way he spoke to that customer. That’s why I had to upbraid him for it.

2. I later upbraided myself for what I said to Emily. I should not have been so blunt and hurtful in my response to her.

3. The politician was criticised by some for upbraiding the journalist, but many others agreed that the reporter’s line of questioning was overly personal and antagonistic.