give someone a good working over

give (one) a (good) working over

1. To harshly scold one for an extended period of time. Man, the boss really gave me a working over for messing up that client's account.2. To beat one, especially in a way intended to punish or intimidate. The mafia leader sent a couple of goons to give the witness a good working over so that she wouldn't testify in court.See also: give, over, working

give someone a (good) working over

tv. to scold or beat someone. The boss gave me a good working over before firing me. See also: give, good, over, someone, working