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.

Under US sanctions since 2023, Abu-Bilal al-Minuki was the second-in-command of IS worldwide, according to US President Donald Trump and the two militaries.

From Barron's • May 16, 2026

Having reported the incident to Cardiff University, he said he expected the students involved to be removed but they are still at the university, and the institution has refused to reveal what sanctions were imposed.

From BBC • May 15, 2026

Jordan said he felt let down that these sanctions were those "usually available only for minor concerns".

From BBC • May 15, 2026

Meanwhile, investors are also monitoring the expiry of a U.S. sanctions waiver allowing purchases of Russian oil cargoes through May 16, which could further tighten supply conditions, according to market watchers.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 14, 2026

The European Community had already begun to scale back sanctions.

From "Long Walk to Freedom" by Nelson Mandela