How Do You Spell HAULED OVER THE COALS?

Pronunciation: [hˈɔːld ˌə͡ʊvə ðə kˈə͡ʊlz] (IPA)

The phrase "hauled over the coals" means to be severely reprimanded or criticized. The spelling of the word "hauled" is pronounced /hɔːld/ with a long "o" sound and the sound of the letter "l". The word "over" is pronounced /ˈəʊvə/ with a schwa sound and ending with an "r". Lastly, the word "coals" is pronounced /kəʊlz/ with a long "o" sound and ending with an "lz" sound. This idiom has its origins in the practice of punishing sailors by making them walk barefoot over hot coals.

HAULED OVER THE COALS Meaning and Definition

1. "Hauled over the coals" is an idiomatic expression that refers to a situation in which someone is subjected to severe criticism, reprimanding, or a thorough interrogation concerning their actions, behavior, or decisions. It is typically used to describe an instance where a person is being held accountable or receiving a strong scolding for their perceived misdeeds or shortcomings.

   The phrase derives its origin from an old method of punishment where people were tied or bound to a wooden frame known as the "coals" or "brazier" and their bodies were exposed to intense heat and flames. This severe punishment was used to inflict pain, induce humiliation, or force confessions.

   In modern usage, "hauled over the coals" does not imply any physical punishment but rather metaphorically reflects the intensity and severity of criticism or chastisement that someone may face. It suggests that the person is enduring a figurative "burning" or "grilling" as they face intense scrutiny, questioning, or reproach.

   The expression can be used in a variety of contexts, such as work situations where an employee is being severely reprimanded by their superiors, or in personal relationships, where someone faces a severe confrontation or accusations for their perceived transgressions. Overall, "hauled over the coals" implies a thorough and scathing evaluation or criticism that aims to hold someone accountable for their actions or behavior.

Common Misspellings for HAULED OVER THE COALS

• gauled over the coals
• bauled over the coals
• nauled over the coals
• jauled over the coals
• uauled over the coals
• yauled over the coals
• hzuled over the coals
• hsuled over the coals
• hwuled over the coals
• hquled over the coals
• hayled over the coals
• hahled over the coals
• hajled over the coals
• hailed over the coals
• ha8led over the coals
• ha7led over the coals
• hauked over the coals
• hauped over the coals
• hauoed over the coals
• haulwd over the coals