chew out

British  

verb

1. informal (tr, adverb) to reprimand

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chew out Idioms  

1. Scold harshly, as in Dad will chew you out for taking the car without permission. Originating in the military, this slangy term began to be used during World War I and soon spread to civilian life. Several vulgar versions, such as chew someone's ass out, should be avoided in polite speech. Also see eat out, def. 2.

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Example Sentences

She studied me for another second, and I wondered if I was going to get chewed out for something when she sighed and held up a finger.

From Literature

They quote him, implement his teachings and recount getting chewed out by him as if it’s a battle scar they’re proud to show off.

From The Wall Street Journal

“If you miss something big and a competitor releases it first? Then you’re getting chewed out by your boss.”

From Los Angeles Times

It wasn’t the play calls or blocking assignments running through the young freshman’s mind — it was the fear of making a blunder and getting “chewed out” in his first real opportunity to prove himself.

From Los Angeles Times

Payton famously chewed out Russell Wilson on the sideline in games against the Jets, Chargers and Lions last year.

From Seattle Times