give (one) a (good) working over
1. To harshly scold one for an extended period of time. Man, the boss really gave me a working over for messing up that client's account.
2. To beat one, especially in a way intended to punish or intimidate. The mafia leader sent a couple of goons to give the witness a good working over so that she wouldn't testify in court.
give someone a (good) working over
tv. to scold or beat someone. The boss gave me a good working over before firing me.
give someone a working over
verbSee give someone a good working over