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Showing results for sanction.
Definitions

sanction

[sangk-shuhn] / ˈsæŋk ʃən /
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 campaign is expected to go well beyond the traditional sanction — the canceling of visas for those suspected of being in league with cartels.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 26, 2026

"This near‑doubling suggests that this additional volume was likely contracted following the sanction waiver," he told AFP.

From Barron's • Apr. 26, 2026

Lloyd’s List reported that the ship is owned by Shanghai Xuanrun Shipping Company, which has been under sanction from the U.S. since March 2023 due to prior trading with Iran.

From Salon • Apr. 14, 2026

After discussions with both players, Fernandez was handed an internal two‑match suspension, while Cucurella faced no sanction.

From BBC • Apr. 8, 2026

I never considered it my right to expect approval or sanction no matter what good I had done.

From "Native Speaker" by Chang-rae Lee

Vocabulary lists containing sanction

The Vocabulary.com Top 1000

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Two-Faced Words: Contronyms

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The SAT: Multiple-Meaning Words, List 5

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