Penalty Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/ˈpənəlti/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Noun or Verb

Definition

A punishment or fine imposed for breaking a rule or instruction, often as a penalty for a breach of conduct or a violation of a law or regulation.

Examples

• The team was given a penalty for unsportsmanlike conduct.
• The company was fined a penalty for failing to comply with safety regulations.

Synonyms

• Fine
• Punishment

Antonyms

• Reward
• Exemption

Additional Information

Penalties can take many forms, including monetary fines, community service, imprisonment, or other forms of punishment. They can be imposed by governments, institutions, or private organizations to enforce rules or laws and maintain order.

Penalties can also be used as a deterrent to discourage certain behaviors or actions. For example, a company may impose penalties on employees who do not meet certain productivity standards to encourage them to work more efficiently.

In many cases, penalties can be appealed or negotiated, and some penalties may be waived or reduced under certain circumstances.

Etymology

The word “penalty” comes from the Old French “penalité”, which is derived from the Latin “penalis”, meaning “punitive” or “punishment”.

Usage Notes

When using the word “penalty”, it’s important to consider the context and the type of penalty being referred to. For example, a sports penalty is different from a financial penalty.

Cultural References

The concept of penalty has been depicted in many films, books, and TV shows, including the popular movie “The Shawshank Redemption”, where the main character serves a penalty in prison.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

Pay the penalty

Serve a penalty

Impose a penalty

Related Words or Phrases

• Fine
• Punishment
• Deterrent
• Sanction

Collocations

• Imposed penalty
• Served penalty
• Payment of penalty
• Warn of penalty

Frequency of Use

The word “penalty” is commonly used in a variety of contexts, including sports, business, and law. It is a widely used term in modern language.

Common Misspellings

• Penalties
• Penelty
• Penlaity