give (one) a (good) talking to
To rebuke, scold, or berate someone thoroughly and intensely. I told her a thousand times not to take the car without asking! Well, I'll give her a good talking to when she gets home. The boss is quick to give you a talking to if you make even a minor mistake.
give someone a (good) talking to
tv. to scold someone; to lecture someone sternly. The teacher gave Jimmy a talking to.