drag (one) over the coals
To scold, reprimand, or reprove someone severely for an error or mistake. I was dragged over the coals by my boss last week for messing up the accounting software. I know Mary messed up, but don't drag her over the coals too hard for it. Whoa, don't drag me over the coals—I had nothing to do with this mishap!
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.