“Chide” is a verb that means to scold or criticize someone in a mild, often friendly way. It’s not a harsh scolding—more like a gentle reminder or playful telling-off.
In daily life, people might chide a friend who’s always late, a parent might chide a child for forgetting to say thank you, or a coworker could chide another for leaving dirty mugs in the sink. It’s usually done with warmth, not anger.
Meaning & Usage Examples
- “She chided him for skipping breakfast again.”
- “The coach chided the team for arriving late, then laughed and started practice.”
- “I chided myself for forgetting the keys.”
Context / Common Use
You’ll hear “chide” in everyday speech when someone wants to point out a small mistake without sounding mean. It pops up in parenting, friendships, and workplaces—anywhere gentle correction is needed.
Is “chide” formal or casual?
It leans slightly formal but is still common in relaxed conversation.
Can I use “chide” about myself?
Yes. “I chided myself for oversleeping” is perfectly natural.
What’s the difference between chide and scold?
“Scold” is harsher; “chide” is softer and friendlier.
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