VocabDictionary

penalize

/ˈpiː.nəl.aɪz/intermediate Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.verb

To subject someone to a penalty or punishment for an offense, infringement, or violation of a rule.

Example Sentences:
  • The new tax laws will penalize small businesses that fail to file their returns on time.
  • The referee decided to penalize the player for unsportsmanlike conduct during the final minutes of the game.
Share & Learn With Friends

Share “penalize” with study groups, classmates, or on your social channels.

English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “penalize”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Derived from the Middle French 'pénaliser', based on the Latin 'poenalis' (pertaining to punishment), which stems from 'poena' (penalty, punishment). The root traces back to the Ancient Greek 'poinē', meaning 'blood money' or 'price paid for a crime'.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of a 'PENALTY' kick in soccer; when you commit a foul, the referee will 'penalize' your team.

Frequently Asked Questions About “penalize

1. What is the meaning of “penalize” in English?

In English, penalize (verb) is defined as: “To subject someone to a penalty or punishment for an offense, infringement, or violation of a rule.”.

2. How do you use “penalize” in a sentence?

The new tax laws will penalize small businesses that fail to file their returns on time.

3. What are English synonyms of “penalize”?

Common synonyms include:punish,discipline,sanction,fine

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “penalize”?

Derived from the Middle French 'pénaliser', based on the Latin 'poenalis' (pertaining to punishment), which stems from 'poena' (penalty, punishment). The root traces back to the Ancient Greek 'poinē', meaning 'blood money' or 'price paid for a crime'.