drag (one) over the coals

drag (one) over the coals

To scold, reprimand, or reprove someone severely for an error or mistake. I was dragged over the coals by my boss last week for messing up the accounting software. I know Mary messed up, but don't drag her over the coals too hard for it.
See also: coal, drag, over
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.
See also:
  • haul (someone) over the coals
  • haul somebody over the coals
  • haul someone over the coals
  • rake (one) over the coals
  • rake over coals
  • rake over the coals
  • read (one) a lesson
  • read a
  • read a lecture
  • read (one) a lecture