Definition
To warn or scold someone gently for a fault or wrongdoing.
Pronunciation
US English
UK English
Part of Speech
Verb.
Synonyms
Reprimand, rebuke, caution, counsel, chide.
Antonyms
Praise, commend, approve, endorse, laud.
Word Forms
| Part of Speech | Words |
|---|---|
| Noun | admonishers, admonishments, admonitions, admonisher, admonition, admonishment |
| Verb | admonishes, admonishing, admonish, admonished |
| Adjective | admonitory |
| Adverb | None |
Example Sentences
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The coach admonished the players for their poor sportsmanship on the field.
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I was admonished by my boss for being late to work for the third time this week.
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The teacher, with a stern expression, admonished her students for their lack of preparation and disorganized behavior, emphasizing the importance of discipline and diligence in their academic pursuits, hoping to instill in them a sense of responsibility and a drive for excellence.
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The parent admonished the child for misbehaving at the restaurant.
Usage
The word “admonish” is used to describe a mild form of warning or scolding. It often implies a sense of correction or guidance, rather than punishment or retribution. When someone is admonished, it means that they are being told to correct their behavior or actions in a gentle and constructive way.
The word “admonish” is derived from the Latin word “admonere,” which means “to warn or advise.” The prefix “ad-” can be added to create related words such as “admonition,” which refers to the act of giving advice or warning.
The term “admonish” can be used in a variety of contexts, from parenting to teaching to coaching. In each case, the goal is to gently correct someone’s behavior in order to help them learn from their mistakes and improve their actions in the future.
It is important to note that while “admonish” is often used in a gentle and constructive sense, it can also be used in a more negative sense to describe a harsher form of reprimand or warning. In such cases, the term may carry a sense of disapproval or criticism, and may be used to describe a more serious offense or transgression.