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.

The US government has already lifted a number of economic sanctions against Venezuela for four months to facilitate relief operations.

From Barron's • Jul. 8, 2026

"Lifting sanctions on Syria will unlock international trade and investment, give Syria a chance to rebuild, and open up a new chapter for the Syrian people," he said.

From Barron's • Jul. 8, 2026

Lam says the move shows that Huawei has overcome some technical hurdles posed by U.S. sanctions that cut off access to global chip supply chains.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jul. 7, 2026

Meanwhile, the US Treasury earlier on Tuesday also revoked a sanctions waiver that had temporarily lifted oil sanctions on Iran.

From BBC • Jul. 7, 2026

The announcer mentioned international sanctions against Zimbabwe in response to the government’s aid to Congo rebels.

From "I Will Always Write Back" by Caitlin Alifirenka and Martin Ganda