The English verb chide” is not as commonly used in modern conversations as some other verbs, but it still holds importance in literature, formal writing, and certain speaking contexts. Understanding the verb form of “chide,” including its base form, past tense, past participle, and present participle, is helpful for students, writers, and language learners. This topic explores its verb forms in detail, how to conjugate and use it in different tenses, and provides practical examples to make its usage clear and accessible.
Definition of “Chide”
Before diving into the verb forms, it’s important to understand what “chide” means. The verb “chide” refers to the act of scolding or rebuking someone in a mild or constructive way. It is often used when someone expresses disapproval, usually with the intent to correct or improve behavior rather than to punish harshly.
Examples of meaning
- A mother might chide her child for not finishing homework.
- A teacher could chide a student for being repeatedly late to class.
Verb Forms of “Chide”
Base Form
The base form of the verb is simplychide. This is the form used with infinitives (to chide) and in the present tense with all subjects except third person singular.
- I chide my younger brother when he forgets to clean his room.
- They often chide their dog when it barks too much.
Third Person Singular
In the present tense, when the subject is third person singular (he, she, it), “chide” becomeschides.
- She chides him for being careless with his words.
- The teacher chides the class when they speak out of turn.
Present Participle / Gerund
The present participle form ischiding. This is used with auxiliary verbs like “is,” “was,” or “has been” to form continuous tenses or as a gerund.
- He is chiding his son gently for the mistake.
- Chiding others constantly can damage relationships.
Past Tense
The simple past tense of “chide” ischided. Although there is an older form “chid,” it is rarely used today. “Chided” is the standard form in modern usage.
- She chided me for not calling her back.
- They chided the children for playing near the road.
Past Participle
The past participle is alsochided. It is used with auxiliary verbs like “have” or “had” to form perfect tenses.
- I have chided him before for the same behavior.
- She had chided her colleague for ignoring deadlines.
Conjugation of “Chide” in All Tenses
Present Simple
- I chide
- You chide
- He/She/It chides
- We chide
- They chide
Past Simple
- I chided
- You chided
- He/She/It chided
- We chided
- They chided
Future Simple
- I will chide
- You will chide
- He/She/It will chide
- We will chide
- They will chide
Present Continuous
- I am chiding
- You are chiding
- He/She/It is chiding
- We are chiding
- They are chiding
Past Continuous
- I was chiding
- You were chiding
- He/She/It was chiding
- We were chiding
- They were chiding
Present Perfect
- I have chided
- You have chided
- He/She/It has chided
- We have chided
- They have chided
Past Perfect
- I had chided
- You had chided
- He/She/It had chided
- We had chided
- They had chided
Future Perfect
- I will have chided
- You will have chided
- He/She/It will have chided
- We will have chided
- They will have chided
Common Usage Contexts for “Chide”
Literature and Formal Writing
“Chide” is frequently found in literature, poetry, and older forms of writing. Authors may use it to add a formal or classical tone to their work.
Example
- The elder chided the young warrior for his arrogance.
Polite or Mild Reprimands
When a harsh word feels too strong, “chide” provides a softer alternative. It expresses disapproval without sounding aggressive.
Example
- The manager chided the team for being slightly off schedule, but praised their effort overall.
Parenting and Teaching
“Chide” is suitable when referring to gentle scolding in educational or parental settings. It’s used when correcting behavior without shouting or punishment.
Examples
- She chided her daughter for staying up too late on a school night.
- The professor chided his students for not doing the assigned reading.
Synonyms and Alternatives to “Chide”
While “chide” is a useful word, there are many synonyms that carry similar meanings with slightly different tones. Depending on the situation, you may use
- Scold– stronger and more direct
- Rebuke– formal and serious
- Reprimand– often official or disciplinary
- Admonish– formal, often used for gentle warnings
- Lecture– implies a longer or more serious form of scolding
Choosing the right verb depends on the context and the tone you want to convey.
The verb “chide” is a versatile word that allows speakers and writers to express disapproval in a way that is firm but not overly harsh. Its various forms chide, chides, chided, chiding are used across all tenses and are suitable for both formal and literary contexts. Although not as common in everyday speech today, “chide” continues to offer a refined and precise option for communicating criticism or correction. Whether you’re writing essays, reading classic literature, or simply looking to expand your vocabulary, understanding the verb form of “chide” adds depth and variety to your English usage.