Haul somebody over the coals
Definition 1 of 1
Pro Tip 1/3Strong Disapproval
This phrase suggests a strong disapproval of someone's actions, often in a formal or serious manner. 
When the project failed, the committee hauled the manager over the coals for poor leadership.
Pro Tip 2/3Not Literal
This idiom is figurative and does not involve actual coals; it describes a verbal, not physical, scolding. 
The teacher didn't literally haul him over the coals; she just gave him a stern lecture about plagiarism.
Pro Tip 3/3Authority Figures
Often used when someone in a position of authority is scolding or reprimanding someone below them. 
The veteran player hauled the rookie over the coals for not following the team strategy.