Words / C2

KAST-ig-ayt/ˈkæstɪɡeɪt/

To castigate is to criticise severely (formal): castigate the board, castigated for delay. Criticise is everyday; reprimand is official; admonish (this batch) is milder. Caste is social class — a lookalike. Do not castigate a junior in public for a first draft.

Meaning

To criticise someone or something severely (formal).

Examples

• “The report castigated the board for minuting “noted” beside an open flame risk.”
• “Criticise is everyday. Admonish warns; castigate lashes. A caste system is social rank. Cast a vote is different. Punching down is not “rigour”.”

Good to know

Rebuke harshly (formal). Everyday: criticise. Milder: admonish. Mix-up: caste (class). Not a public thrashing of a junior draft.

Near in meaning

criticise

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