PENALIZE Synonyms: 38 Similar and Opposite Words

penalize

verb

ˈpē-nə-ˌlīz

Definition of penalize next

as in to punish

to inflict a penalty on for a fault or crime the player was penalized for unsportsmanlike conduct

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Example Sentences

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Recent Examples of penalize People who use generative AI quite frequently in their daily lives – at least every other day – did penalize AI use slightly less when AI authorship was disclosed, compared with people who never or rarely use AI. —

Andras Molnar, The Conversation, 20 Apr. 2026 California law penalizes abuse of a child under 14 especially harshly. —

Andrew Dalton, Chicago Tribune, 20 Apr. 2026 He should be penalized for that. —

Roderick Boone, Charlotte Observer, 16 Apr. 2026 Here are seven golfers, reporters and fans who have reportedly been banned, disinvited or penalized at the Masters Tournament. —

Jordana Comiter, PEOPLE, 11 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for penalize

Recent Examples of Synonyms for penalize

punish

Verb

Defiance bears a cost Merino was once punished for weaving.

— María Teresa Hernández, Los Angeles Times, 22 Apr. 2026
Shares of Adobe, the owner of Photoshop and other tools, have been punished lately, plunging 40% below their May 2025 high and into a bear market.

— Sarah Min, CNBC, 22 Apr. 2026