Telling someone off is an expression of disapproval or criticism. The term 'tell off' can be broken down into six different words: BERATE (6 letters), LASH (4 letters), UPBRAID (7 letters), REPRIMAND (9 letters), REPROVE (7 letters), and REBUKE (6 letters). BERATE means to SCOLD harshly, while LASH means to criticize severely. UPBRAID means to find fault with or criticize someone, while REPRIMAND means to express strong disapproval or criticism. REPROVE means to express disapproval or criticism, and REBUKE means to criticize sharply. Finally, SCOLD means to find fault with or criticize someone harshly.