The phrase is outdated and not commonly used in modern English, mostly found in historical contexts.

Archaic Usage

Originally meant a physical action but often used metaphorically today to imply a warning.

Physical Gesture

Can indicate a range of severity from gentle to more forceful based on context.

Currently used more often in a figurative sense, meaning to scold, rather than physically assault.

Can be a substitute for 'tell off' when referencing a reprimand for bad behavior.

The phrase can imply different intensities of scolding, from mild to severe, depending on context.