Dutch Expression · Intermediate
de oren wassen
to rebuke, scold, reprimand severely, put someone in their place
Pronunciation: say de oren wassen
Meaning
to rebuke, scold, reprimand severely, put someone in their place
Example
Ze waste de spijbelaar de oren.
She severely reprimanded the truant.
Practice tips
- Practice de oren wassen out loud — read the pronunciation guide above and repeat.
- Use it in your own sentence today; reuse beats rereading.
- Pay attention to context: this Dutch expression is for intermediate-level learners.