Tell off

Pronunciation: /ˈtɛɫ ˈɔf/

Tell off (verb)

  1. To speak angrily to someone because they behaved badly, telling them to stop or change.
  2. To criticize someone firmly for their actions or words, usually in a way that shows disapproval.

Examples

  • She told him off for being rude.
  • The teacher told the students off for talking.