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Definition |
reprimanding or scolding someone sternly |
Examples |
1) After the unruly crowd refused to disperse, the police had no choice
but to read the riot act. 2) The
manager gathered all the employees and read
them the riot act, demanding an immediate improvement in
cleanliness. |
Etymology |
It originated from a historical law called
"The Riot Act" in England, where it was read to disperse rioting crowds. |
Synonyms |
dress down, rail against, take to task |
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