Meaning & Definition of word "Penalize"
Penalize
/ˈpiːnəlaɪz/
verb:
- 1. to subject to a penalty for an offense or wrongdoing.
- Example: The referee decided to penalize the player for unsportsmanlike conduct.
- 2. to impose a penalty or punishment for a violation of a rule or law.
- Example: The school will penalize students who arrive late to class after the bell.
- 3. to disadvantage someone as a consequence of their actions.
- Example: The new tax law may penalize small businesses compared to larger corporations.
- 4. to impose a financial or legal penalty.
- Example: The government may penalize companies that fail to comply with environmental regulations.
- 5. to decrease the benefit or advantage for someone or something as a result of certain actions.
- Example: The decision to penalize employees for taking sick leave has led to low morale.
Etymology
●From Middle French 'pénal' meaning 'pertaining to punishment', from Latin 'poenalis'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
penalize someone:
To impose a punishment or negative consequence on someone for their actions.
penalize a violation:
To impose penalties for breaking a rule or law.
Related Words
penalty:
A punishment imposed for breaking a law or rule.
punishment:
The infliction of a penalty as retribution for an offense.