When someone "hauls over the coals," they are often criticized or scolded severely for their actions. There are a handful of synonyms for this phrase, including "bawl out," "reprimand," "rebuke," and "dress down." These words all carry a similar definition, which is to scold someone harshly or reprimand them for something they did wrong. "Chew out," "castigate," and "take to task" are other synonyms that can also express the idea of someone being scolded, reprimanded, or criticized severely. In any case, it is clear that getting "hauled over the coals" is never a pleasant experience.