How Do You Spell RAKE OVER COALS?

Pronunciation: [ɹˈe͡ɪk ˌə͡ʊvə kˈə͡ʊlz] (IPA)

The phrase "rake over coals" is spelled as /reɪk ˈoʊvər koʊlz/ and is often used to describe the act of criticizing or reprimanding someone for something that has already occurred. The word "rake" refers to the action of using a tool to collect or gather debris or rubbish, while "coals" represent burning embers or charcoal. When put together, the phrase means to bring up and scrutinize a situation that has already been dealt with. Despite its seemingly straightforward spelling, this phrase highlights the importance of pronunciation and intonation in conveying meaning.

RAKE OVER COALS Meaning and Definition

1. The phrase "rake over coals" is an idiomatic expression that stems from the act of raking hot coals or embers in order to revive or intensify the heat. Metaphorically, it refers to the act of resurrecting or revisiting past events, particularly negative ones, in a thorough and often critical manner.

   When someone "rakes over coals," they engage in a thorough examination or discussion of a previous situation, often with the intention of uncovering hidden or sensitive information, or simply for the purpose of assigning blame. This expression carries a connotation of stirring up old grievances or reopening wounds, usually in a confrontational or accusatory manner.

   To "rake over coals" implies a relentless or scrutinous approach to revisiting past events, often with the purpose of assigning culpability or exploring unresolved issues. It can refer to personal relationships, political controversies, legal disputes, or any situation where a thorough scrutiny of past actions is required.

   The phrase "rake over coals" suggests a sense of discomfort, as it hints at the potential for creating conflict, rekindling old arguments, or unearthing buried grievances. Therefore, it is often used as a cautionary phrase, discouraging individuals from delving too deeply into unresolved or contentious matters.

Common Misspellings for RAKE OVER COALS

• eake over coals
• dake over coals
• fake over coals
• take over coals
• 5ake over coals
• 4ake over coals
• rzke over coals
• rske over coals
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• rqke over coals
• raje over coals
• rame over coals
• rale over coals
• raoe over coals
• raie over coals
• rakw over coals
• raks over coals
• rakd over coals
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• rak4 over coals