admonish - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
admonish Word Meanings
- to warn someone about something
- to scold gently or earnestly
- to advise or urge someone seriously
admonish Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
admonish Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ədˈmɒn.ɪʃ/
US
/ædˈmɑː.nɪʃ/
admonish Word Etymology
Root: ad- (to) + monere (to warn). Historical Origin: from Latin admonere → Old French admoignier → English admonish. Memory Image: Picture a wise elder tapping someone on the shoulder, gently warning them of a coming storm, blending care with caution.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Admonish is a verb meaning to warn someone about a problem or to reprimand gently, with a sense of concern and guidance rather than anger. It often implies a warning about potential consequences and a request to change behavior, sometimes framed as a formal or parental admonition. In modern usage, it can cover both mild cautions like reminders to follow rules and more earnest scoldings aimed at preventing harmful actions. The nuance sits between advise and rebuke: you urge someone to reconsider, sometimes with authority, but usually without full harsh criticism. In religious, educational, or professional contexts, admonish signals responsibility to guide others toward better conduct.
Usage Reminders
- 1) Use with a clear object: admonish someone to do something.
- 2) Pair with a gentle, corrective tone, not anger.
- 3) Reserve for warnings about future behavior or norms.
- 4) Distinguish from harsher terms like reprimand or scold.
- 5) In formal writing, often appears with authority figures (parents, teachers, bosses).
Common Misconceptions
- It always means scolding harshly.
- It is the same as 'warn' or 'advise' in all contexts.
- You only admonish someone who has done something wrong.
- It cannot be used in everyday conversation.
- Admonish implies anger or humiliation.
Thinking Differences
English speakers often distinguish admonish from warn and advise by tone and intensity: admonish carries a corrective, slightly formal vibe with concern for future conduct.
Learning Tips
- Note the structure: admonish + someone + to + verb.
- Differentiate from warn and advise by tone and formality.
- Use in formal writing or formal spoken contexts.
- Pair with a caution about consequences to show concern.
- Watch collocations: admonish someone to follow rules, to change behavior.
- Practice with authority figures (parents, teachers, bosses).
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does the word 'admonish' mean?
A.To praise excessively
B.To ignore someone's actions
C.To warn or reprimand someone firmly
D.To celebrate a person's achievements
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses 'admonish' correctly?
A.The teacher admonished the students for their excellent performance.
B.He felt admonished after receiving the award.
C.She decided to admonish him for his negligence.
D.They went to admonish the festival with fireworks.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym for 'admonish'?
A.Advise
B.Praise
C.Celebrate
D.Encourage
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is an antonym of 'admonish'?
A.Reward
B.Instruct
C.Reprimand
D.Criticize
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context where someone might need to admonish another person?
A.A coach telling the players to do better after a loss.
B.A friend encouraging you to try a new activity.
C.A manager discussing the importance of deadlines with a team member.
D.A mother telling her child they did a good job on their homework.
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