call (one) to task

call (one) to task

To scold, reprimand, or lecture someone for some wrong or error they have committed. Mom called me to task over the alcohol she found in my car. You don't have to call everyone to task who misuses the word "literally," you know.
See also: call, task
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.
See also:
  • bring (one) to task
  • read (one) a lecture
  • come down on
  • come down on (someone or something)
  • drag (one) over the coals
  • haul (someone) over the coals
  • haul somebody over the coals
  • haul someone over the coals