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.

Washington pledged not to impose any new sanctions or deploy additional forces in the region.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jul. 2, 2026

Iran’s economy is badly in need of a fresh injection of foreign currency amid rampant inflation driven by years of sanctions.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jul. 2, 2026

Rising prices and a volatile currency have been among the major domestic economic fallouts of Moscow's four-year offensive on Ukraine, which has seen it hit with unprecedented packages of Western sanctions.

From Barron's • Jun. 30, 2026

They also gave themselves at least 60 days to reach a final deal that covers Iran's nuclear programme, US sanctions and a permanent truce.

From BBC • Jun. 30, 2026

I was aware that the European Community and the States were inclined to relax sanctions based on Mr. de Klerk’s reforms.

From "Long Walk to Freedom" by Nelson Mandela