The English language is full of expressive words that help convey tone and emotion, and one such word is chide. This word is often used to describe a gentle form of scolding or expressing disapproval. Using the word ‘chide’ in a sentence can enhance your writing by adding subtle emotion or authority. It’s commonly found in literature, formal conversations, and sometimes in modern-day discussions. To fully understand how to use chide, it’s helpful to explore its definition, origin, and various example sentences that demonstrate its use in different contexts.
Definition of Chide
The wordchideis a verb that means to scold, rebuke, or express disapproval typically in a mild or constructive way. It is often used when someone is being gently corrected rather than harshly criticized.
- Chide(verb): to speak to someone angrily because you disapprove of what they have done.
It is not as strong or aggressive as words like rebuke or reprimand, but it still conveys dissatisfaction or a sense of correction.
Origin of the Word
Chide originates from the Old English word cīdan, which means to contend or quarrel. Over time, the meaning shifted to its current use expressing disapproval in a more refined or tempered manner.
How to Use Chide in a Sentence
To effectively use ‘chide’ in a sentence, it’s important to focus on situations where someone is being corrected, warned, or advised with a tone of concern or mild disappointment. Below are various examples to help demonstrate how the word functions in different sentence structures and settings.
Example Sentences Using Chide
- The teacherchidedthe student for not submitting the assignment on time.
- She gentlychidedher friend for arriving late to the meeting.
- He waschidedby his mother for leaving the door unlocked overnight.
- Even though he was wrong, she didn’t shout she simplychidedhim with a disappointed look.
- The managerchidedthe team for missing the deadline, but offered support for improvement.
In each of these examples, the word ‘chide’ is used to express criticism or correction without implying cruelty or excessive harshness.
Chide in Literature and Formal Language
Chide is commonly used in literary works, especially in classical English literature or poetry. It adds a certain elegance or sophistication to the tone. Writers like William Shakespeare often used the word chide in their plays and sonnets to reflect emotions like disappointment or mild anger.
Literary Usage Example
In Shakespeare’sKing Lear, the word appears as:
Let it be so; thy truth then be thy dower: For, by the sacred radiance of the sun, The mysteries of Hecate and the night; By all the operation of the orbs From whom we do exist and cease to be; Here I disclaim all my paternal care, Propinquity and property of blood, And as a stranger to my heart and me Hold thee from this for ever. The barbarous Scythian, Or he that makes his generation messes To gorge his appetite, shall to my bosom Be as well neighbour’d, pitied, and relieved, As thou my sometime daughter.
Though not a direct use of ‘chide’ in this passage, Shakespeare often used similar terms in moments of gentle disapproval or paternal disappointment.
Grammatical Use of Chide
The verb chide is irregular in its forms, which makes it useful to examine its various tenses:
- Base form: chide
- Past tense: chided (sometimes archaic: chid)
- Past participle: chided or chid (both accepted, though ‘chided’ is more common today)
- Present participle: chiding
Examples using different forms:
- They arechidinghim for his careless remarks.
- Shechidedme yesterday, but I appreciated the advice.
- The mother hadchidedher child too many times for the same behavior.
Synonyms and Related Words
If you want to replace ‘chide’ with other words that convey a similar meaning, consider the following options:
- Scold– Slightly harsher, often used in parental or disciplinary contexts.
- Rebuke– Stronger, used for formal disapproval.
- Reprimand– Often used in workplaces or formal situations.
- Admonish– To warn or advise gently but seriously.
- Lecture– Informal, used when someone gives a long-winded piece of advice or correction.
Each word varies slightly in tone, but they all share the common feature of expressing some form of disapproval or correction.
When to Use Chide and When Not To
Chide is best used in situations where the tone is serious but not aggressive. It is suitable for teachers, parents, mentors, or anyone offering gentle correction. However, in highly emotional or confrontational settings, stronger words may be more appropriate. Similarly, if the tone is humorous or casual, using ‘chide’ might sound overly formal.
Appropriate Usage Scenarios
- A parent reminding their child to do chores.
- A friend expressing mild frustration over a missed appointment.
- A mentor guiding a student to avoid repeated mistakes.
Inappropriate Usage Scenarios
- Describing intense anger or harsh discipline.
- In informal or humorous arguments where a lighter word would fit better.
How to Teach Chide to Language Learners
For English learners, chide can be a useful word to expand vocabulary related to emotions and social interactions. Teachers should focus on context and tone when explaining the word. Activities like sentence writing, role-play, or comparing synonyms can help reinforce its meaning.
Tips for Language Learners
- Learn the context: Understand when to use chide versus scold or rebuke.
- Practice with dialogue: Use ‘chide’ in conversations to improve fluency.
- Read literature: Spot how authors use chide to express mood and character emotion.
The wordchide offers a graceful and articulate way to express disapproval or correction. It is not overly harsh, making it perfect for situations where you want to guide someone without offending them. From classic literature to modern dialogue, ‘chide’ remains a relevant and expressive part of the English language. By understanding its meaning, usage, and proper sentence examples, you can confidently use the word ‘chide’ to improve your communication and writing skills.