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punishes

VERB

penalize for wrongdoing

Synonyms

STRONGEST

abuse chastise correct crack down on discipline dismiss execute expel fine harm hurt incarcerate sentence

STRONG

batter beat blacklist castigate chasten cuff debar defrock exile flog immure injure lash lecture maltreat misuse oppress paddle reprove scourge spank switch train whip

WEAK

attend to beat up do in give a going over give the works knock about rap knuckles rough up slap wrist teach a lesson throw the book at

Antonyms

STRONGEST

aid assist benefit compliment help preserve welcome

STRONG

boost guard lose praise protect surrender

WEAK

award exonerate let go reward

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.

Depriving prisoners of communication with the outside world also punishes their families.

From Barron's • May 8, 2026

“It reflects a legitimate and important state interest in protecting people from harassment and threats. But at the same time, this bill punishes the publication of information.”

From Los Angeles Times • May 4, 2026

Gattuso admitted the team's shortcomings: "When you have chances and don't take them, football punishes you."

From BBC • Apr. 1, 2026

“We see telltale signs of a market distorted beyond recognition, one that punishes strategic investment, one that punishes diversification,” Vice President JD Vance said.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 9, 2026

Any system that constricts teachers—holds them to small-bore metrics, punishes them for forces outside their control, discourages their creativity and spontaneity, chips away at their humanity—is a bad system.

From "Drama High" by Michael Sokolove