admonish

This term carries a tone of authoritative correction that is more severe than a simple suggestion but softer than a harsh condemnation. It suggests a corrective intent, where the speaker aims to guide the listener toward better behavior through a firm warning or a gentle scolding. In legal or formal contexts, it refers to a specific type of official reprimand that stops short of a full penalty. The word implies a power imbalance, typically used by a superior, such as a parent, teacher, or judge, addressing a subordinate.