Translation guide
How to express scolding, reprimanding, or telling someone off in Japanese, from mild to severe.
To express anger or disapproval about someone's behavior, often verbally.
The most common and general verb for scolding or telling off, used by parents, teachers, bosses, etc.
My mother told me off for being late.
The teacher scolded the students.
Means 'to get angry' and can imply scolding. Often used when someone is visibly upset.
My father got angry and told me off for lying.
To scold harshly or give a severe telling-off. Stronger than 叱る.
The boss gave the subordinate a severe telling-off for the mistake.
To tell someone off in a more formal or serious manner, often with a lecture.
To express telling off in informal, everyday conversation.
叱る (shikaru) focuses on the act of scolding with the intention to correct behavior, while 怒る (okoru) focuses on the emotion of anger. 叱る is often seen as more constructive, whereas 怒る can be just an emotional outburst.
He scolded the child but wasn't angry.
Do not translate 'tell off' literally as 言う (iu) + オフ (ofu). There is no direct equivalent; use the verbs above depending on context.
The coach really told off the players.