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/ɹˈeɪk ˌɛsbˈiː slˈaʃ ˌɛstˌiːˈeɪtʃ ˌəʊvə ðə kˈəʊlz/
/ɹˈeɪk ˌɛsbˈiː slˈæʃ ˌɛstˌiːˈeɪtʃ ˌoʊvɚ ðə kˈoʊlz/to rake sb/sth over the coals
What is the origin of the idiom "rake someone or something over the coals" and when to use it?
The idiom "rake someone or something over the coals" has its origins in historical punishment practices, specifically the act of placing someone on a bed of hot coals as a form of torture or execution. Over time, the phrase evolved into a metaphorical expression, describing a severe scolding, reprimand, or criticism. The idiom is commonly used to convey a harsh evaluation or a thorough examination of behavior, actions, or work.
Esempio
Dissatisfied with the team's performance, the manager decided to rake them over the coals in the project review.
Dissatisfied with the team's performance, the manager decided to rake them over the coals in the project review.
During the performance evaluation, the supervisor raked the employee over the coals for consistent underperformance.
The teacher raked the students over the coals for their lack of preparation and participation in class.
Carte Condivisibili
![Definizione e Significato di "To [rake] {sb/sth} over the coals"](https://api.langeek.co/v1/cpg/en/it/translation/normal/218374/to-rake-sb-sth-over-the-coals "Definizione e Significato di \"To [rake] {sb/sth} over the coals\"")
