give someone a good talking to

give (one) a (good) talking to

To rebuke, scold, or berate someone thoroughly and intensely. I told her a thousand times not to take the car without asking! Well, I'll give her a good talking to when she gets home. The boss is quick to give you a talking to if you make even a minor mistake.See also: give, talk

give someone a (good) talking to

tv. to scold someone; to lecture someone sternly. The teacher gave Jimmy a talking to. See also: give, good, someone, talk