The word 'castigate' reflects an enduring concept in human interaction: the attempt to correct or improve behavior through criticism. While it is often associated with negativity, castigation can also be viewed as an act of care, aimed at guiding someone towards better choices. In literature and public discourse, it has been used to describe the actions of moral authorities, leaders, and even friends who wish to address faults. However, its effectiveness depends on the manner in which it is delivered, as excessive or unwarranted castigation can lead to resentment rather than improvement.
Word 'castigate' in Other Languages
- castigate in Assamese অসমীয়া
- castigate in Bengali বাংলা
- castigate in Bodo बड़ो
- castigate in Dogri डोगरी
- castigate in English
- castigate in Gujarati ગુજરાતી
- castigate in Hindi हिन्दी
- castigate in Kannada ಕನ್ನಡ
- castigate in Kashmiri कॉशुर
- castigate in Konkani कोंकणी
- castigate in Maithili মৈথিলী
- castigate in Malayalam മലയാളം
- castigate in Manipuri মৈতৈলোন্
- castigate in Marathi मराठी
- castigate in Nepali नेपाली
- castigate in Oriya ଓଡ଼ିଆ
- castigate in Punjabi ਪੰਜਾਬੀ
- castigate in Sanskrit संस्कृतम्
- castigate in Santali
- castigate in Sindhi سنڌي
- castigate in Tamil தமிழ்
- castigate in Telugu తెలుగు
- castigate in Urdu اُردُو
Castigate
Part of Speech
Verb
Pronunciation
/ˈkæs.tɪ.ɡeɪt/
Definitions
- To reprimand someone severely.
- To criticize harshly with the intent of correction.
Usage Examples
- The teacher did not hesitate to castigate the students for their lack of discipline.
- He was castigated by his peers for his irresponsible behavior.
Etymology
Derived from the Latin "castigare," meaning "to punish" or "to chastise," from "castus" (pure) + "agere" (to drive or lead).
Synonyms
- Reprimand
- Chastise
- Scold
- Censure
- Criticize
Antonyms
- Praise
- Commend
- Approve
- Compliment
Translations
| Language | Translation | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| French | Réprimander | /ʁe.pʁi.mɑ̃.de/ |
| Spanish | Castigar | /kas.tiˈɣar/ |
| German | Zurechtweisen | /t͡suˈʁɛçt.vaɪ̯.zən/ |
| Hindi | फटकारना | /pʰəʈ.kaːr.naː/ |
Regional Pronunciation Variations
In British English: /ˈkæs.tɪ.ɡeɪt/
In American English: /ˈkæs.tə.ɡeɪt/
Historical Usage
The term 'castigate' emerged in the late 17th century and was originally associated with strict correction, particularly in moral or disciplinary contexts. It has since evolved to refer more broadly to harsh criticism aimed at rectifying behavior.
Cultural Nuances
'Castigate' is often used in formal or literary contexts to describe severe verbal reprimands. In some cultures, such criticism is seen as a necessary tool for improvement, while in others, it may carry connotations of humiliation or excessive harshness.