Thesaurus.com
Dictionary.com
Definitions

punitive

[pyoo-ni-tiv] / ˈpju nɪ tɪv /


Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

See Examples For:

The CJP accused the government of backtracking after authorities had assured them that no punitive action would be taken against protesters.

From Barron's Jul. 27, 2026

The old common-law “hue and cry” is not a model to romanticize; it could be coercive, punitive, and exclusionary.

From Slate Jul. 27, 2026

“We like bonds because high real rates and low real wages are punitive for the economy,” he said.

From MarketWatch Jul. 2, 2026

Financial firms are seeking to curb punitive damages and route complex cases to other arbitration forums, which would require SEC approval.

From The Wall Street Journal Jun. 30, 2026

A compassionate, humane approach to the problems of the urban poor must replace the punitive practices and policies that have multiplied the harms associated with poverty and racial oppression.

From "The New Jim Crow" by Michelle Alexander




Vocabulary lists containing punitive


Vocabulary.com logo
by dictionary.com

Join 12,000,000 vocabulary learners

Start learning new words today on VocabTrainer.
You'll remember them forever.

Start training