Hauling over the coals is an idiom that means to scold severely or reprimand someone harshly. There are several synonyms for this phrase, including dressing down, reprimanding, admonishing, chiding, castigating, rebuking, and chastising. Each of these synonyms has a slightly different connotation, but all convey the idea of a stern and critical reprimand. While some synonyms may be more appropriate for formal settings, such as rebuking or chastising, others may be less intense, like dressing down or chiding. Using these synonyms can allow for more variety in writing or conversation while still getting the same point across.