English–German

“scold” in German

German

Pronunciation

IPA/ˈʁyːgn̩/

Example

Die Chefin hat ihn wegen seines Fehlers gerügt.

The boss scolded him for his mistake.

Illustration for rügen (scold)

How to say “scold” in German

“Scold” in German is rügen.

An official reprimand directed at someone after a clear fault.

Full entry for rügen: usage tips, similar words and word origin

Example sentences with rügen

Die Gewerkschaft rügte die Entscheidung der Geschäftsführung scharf.

The trade union sharply criticized the management's decision.

Tips for using rügen

  • Rügen is more formal and sharper than the neutral verb kritisieren, especially in institutional or official language.

“scold” in other languages