懲らしめる

1. Origins, structure, and basic meaning

• Structure: 懲らしめる is read as こらしめる. It is a transitive verb meaning to punish someone or teach them a painful lesson so that they do not repeat an offense.
• Basic usage: Mark the target with を, as in 盗賊を懲らしめる or 人を懲らしめる.

2. Common pitfalls and similar expressions

• Stronger than scolding
  • It can imply punishment or retaliation and is stronger than simply scolding someone with 叱る.
• Interpersonal tone
  • Because it foregrounds making a person suffer consequences, it can sound harsh when used about an ordinary mistake.