Synonyms of penalty

penalty

noun

ˈpe-nᵊl-tē 

1

as in fine

a sum of money to be paid as a punishment

the penalty for speeding is $10 for every mile over the speed limit

Synonyms & Similar Words

• fine
• damages
• forfeiture
• compensation
• forfeit
• mulct
• reparations
• award
• indemnity
• assessment

2

as in punishment

suffering, loss, or hardship imposed in response to a crime or offense

in some cases, the new penalties for drug offenses were harsher than those for violent crimes

Synonyms & Similar Words

• punishment
• wrath
• sentence
• correction
• discipline
• chastisement
• castigation
• comeuppance
• condemnation
• retribution
• nemesis
• retaliation
• desert(s)
• fine
• revenge
• reprimand
• vengeance
• assessment
• reprisal
• imprisonment
• example
• criticism
• charge
• confinement
• incarceration
• damnation
• censure
• mulct
• denouncement
• rebuke
• reproof

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• indemnity
• parole
• amnesty
• pardon
• exemption
• acquittal
• exoneration
• immunity
• vindication
• impunity
• commutation
• exculpation
• release
• forgiveness
• reprieve
• remission
• absolution
• disregard
• condonation
• remitment
• overlooking

3

as in disadvantage

the negative result caused by something that creates difficulty for achieving success

suffered the penalty of his decision to leave school without graduating

Synonyms & Similar Words

• disadvantage
• expense
• loss
• despite
• injury
• deficit
• detriment
• damage
• deprivation
• harm
• disfavor
• prejudice
• hurt

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• advantage
• favor
• gain

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of penalty

And Income Thresholds From our angle, the approach should keep in mind penalties arising in healthcare costs triggered by certain Adjusted Gross Income thresholds. — Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 17 July 2026

The investigating committee led by High Court judge David Lok is expected to give recommendations after reviewing the fire’s cause, potential systemic problems and whether existing regulations and penalties are sufficient. — ABC News, 17 July 2026

Failure to comply could result in penalties of up to 10% of a company’s annual global revenue. — Andrew Nusca, Fortune, 17 July 2026

The penalty is identical to that for desecrating the flag or other national emblem of a foreign state, which was already in place. — News Desk, Artforum, 17 July 2026