PUNISHMENT Synonyms: 52 Similar and Opposite Words

punishment

noun

ˈpə-nish-mənt

as in penalty

suffering, loss, or hardship imposed in response to a crime or offense he is serving five years in prison as punishment for aggravated assault

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Example Sentences

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Recent Examples of punishment Prosecutors declined to pursue the ultimate punishment because a federal judge ruled earlier this year in an unrelated murder case that interstate stalking charges do not rise to the level to support a capital crime, officials said. —

Alexander Mallin, ABC News, 10 June 2026 During the punishment phase, jurors were instructed on the issue of sudden passion, which can reduce the sentencing range in certain cases. —

Amelia Mugavero, CBS News, 10 June 2026 Rights groups have documented cases in which Iranian athletes faced punishment after supporting or participating in anti-government protests. —

Jackson Thompson, FOXNews.com, 10 June 2026 Lawyers across the country are debating whether the punishment, which included apologies to a half dozen law clerks, and an agreement never to serve as chief judge, was too light. —

Carrie Johnson, NPR, 9 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for punishment

Recent Examples of Synonyms for punishment

Noun

The government recently announced another recruitment drive, offering to pay off debts of up to $140,000 for men who sign up and might otherwise face penalties for defaulting.

— Lauren Kent, CNN Money, 14 June 2026
Under Florida law, a first-time DUI conviction can carry penalties that include fines, probation, community service and a driver's license suspension, though any potential penalties in this case would depend on the outcome of court proceedings.

— Brittany Miller, FOXNews.com, 14 June 2026