sanctions

NOUN

authorization

Synonyms

STRONGEST

approval

STRONG

acquiescence allowance approbation assent authority backing confirmation consent countenance encouragement endorsement fiat go-ahead leave nod okay permission permit ratification recommendation sufferance support word

WEAK

green light seal of approval stamp of approval

Antonyms

STRONG

denial disagreement disapproval discouragement opposition prohibition question refusal rejection veto

WEAK

award honor prevention reward

NOUN

embargo, punishment

Synonyms

STRONGEST

ban boycott injunction penalty sentence

STRONG

command decree writ

WEAK

coercive measure punitive measure

Antonyms

WEAK

award disapproval honor prevention refusal reward veto

VERB

authorize, confirm

Synonyms

STRONGEST

accredit allow approve certify empower endorse permit ratify warrant

STRONG

back bless commission countenance license okay support

WEAK

get behind give the go-ahead give the green light give the nod go for vouch for

Antonyms

STRONGEST

deny disagree disallow disapprove invalidate oppose protest refuse reject revoke

STRONG

discourage veto

WEAK

prevent

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.

According to Iran's Fars news agency, Washington has agreed to release part of Tehran's funds frozen abroad under international sanctions and to end its naval blockade of ships travelling to and from Iranian ports.

From Barron's • May 24, 2026

She visited the Netherlands this month and has been invited to the Ibero-American Summit in Madrid despite European Union sanctions on her.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 24, 2026

It had previously been insured by Hydor, but a spokesperson for the company told the BBC their cover ended when the US imposed sanctions on the ship.

From BBC • May 23, 2026

The sanctions come as Tanzania continues to investigate reports of political repression and abuses surrounding the general election held last October.

From BBC • May 22, 2026

In our meeting that day, though, I could not make the slightest bit of headway with her on the question of sanctions.

From "Long Walk to Freedom" by Nelson Mandela