The teacher took John to task for his bad behavior.I lost a big contract, and the boss took me to task in front of everyone.
Idiom
take someone to tasktake (someone) to task
to criticize someone angrily for something that they have done.
She took my father to task for getting drunk at my cousin's wedding.
(often + for)
take (one) to task
To scold, reprimand, lecture, or hold one accountable for some wrong or error they committed. Mom took me to task over my terrible report card.You don't have to take everyone to task who misuses the word "literally," you know.
take someone to task
reprimand or criticize someone severely for a fault or mistake.