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

Should companies face tougher penalties for advertising misleading health benefits, especially when someone's financial security could be at stake? — Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 11 Nov. 2026

Last week Brewer was called for holding twice in Miami’s 19-9 loss to the Detroit Lions, which was a game where Miami’s offense committed five holding penalties, and eight total penalties were called on offense. — Omar Kelly, Miami Herald, 11 Nov. 2026

Last Sunday the Dolphins had 11 penalties, eight on offense, and six on Detroit’s side of the field. — Chris Perkins, Sun Sentinel, 11 Nov. 2026

The maximum penalty is life imprisonment for a Section 1 offense and 14 years' imprisonment for a Section 3 offense. — Chloe Taylor, CNBC, 11 Nov. 2026