riot act - a vigorous reprimand; "I read him the riot act"

criticism, unfavorable judgment - disapproval expressed by pointing out faults or shortcomings; "the senator received severe criticism from his opponent"

chiding, objurgation, scolding, tongue-lashing - rebuking a person harshly

what for - a strong reprimand

bawling out, castigation, chewing out, dressing down, upbraiding, earful, going-over - a severe scolding

berating, blowing up - a severe rebuke; "he deserved the berating that the coach gave him"

reproach - a mild rebuke or criticism; "words of reproach"

talking to, lecture, speech - a lengthy rebuke; "a good lecture was my father's idea of discipline"; "the teacher gave him a talking to"

chastening, chastisement, correction - a rebuke for making a mistake

admonishment, monition, admonition - a firm rebuke

castigate, chasten, chastise, objurgate, correct - censure severely; "She chastised him for his insensitive remarks"

brush down, tell off - reprimand; "She told the misbehaving student off"

criticise, criticize, pick apart, knock - find fault with; express criticism of; point out real or perceived flaws; "The paper criticized the new movie"; "Don't knock the food--it's free"