Meaning & Definition of word "Punitive"
to
Punitive
/ˈpjuːnɪtɪv/
adjective:
- 1. Intended as punishment.
- Example: The government imposed punitive measures to discourage tax evasion.
- 2. Relating to, or involving punishment.
- Example: The school adopted a punitive approach to address bullying.
- 3. Characterized by severe penalties or retributions.
- Example: Many viewed the sentence as excessively punitive given the circumstances.
- 4. Designed to penalize rather than to reform.
- Example: The punitive fines for violations were meant to deter future misconduct.
- 5. Involving harsh treatment or consequences.
- Example: The company's punitive policies led to widespread discontent among employees.
Etymology
Derived from the Latin 'punitivus', which comes from 'punire' meaning 'to punish'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
punitive damages:
Monetary compensation awarded in a lawsuit that goes beyond what is necessary to compensate for losses.
punitive action:
An action taken to punish someone for a wrongdoing.
Related Words
punish:
To inflict a penalty or impose a consequence for an offense or wrongdoing.
punishment:
The infliction of a penalty for an offense or wrongdoing.