What is another word for reads the riot act to?
Pronunciation: [ɹˈiːdz ðə ɹˈa͡ɪ͡ət ˈakt tuː] (IPA) 
The phrase "reads the riot act to" is often used to describe a situation where someone is being sternly reprimanded or warned about their behavior. However, there are many other ways to convey this same idea using synonyms. Some alternatives might include "reprimands," "chastises," "rebukes," "scolds," "reproaches," or "upbraids." Each of these options carries slightly different connotations and levels of severity, but they all share a common theme of conveying disapproval or warning someone to change their behavior. So the next time you need to describe someone being told off, consider using one of these alternatives instead of the usual "reads the riot act to".
