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punishes

VERB

penalize for wrongdoing

Synonyms

STRONGEST

abuse chastise correct crack down on discipline dismiss execute expel fine harm hurt incarcerate sentence

STRONG

batter beat blacklist castigate chasten cuff debar defrock exile flog immure injure lash lecture maltreat misuse oppress paddle reprove scourge spank switch train whip

WEAK

attend to beat up do in give a going over give the works knock about rap knuckles rough up slap wrist teach a lesson throw the book at

Antonyms

STRONGEST

aid assist benefit compliment help preserve welcome

STRONG

boost guard lose praise protect surrender

WEAK

award exonerate let go reward

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.

Gattuso admitted the team's shortcomings: "When you have chances and don't take them, football punishes you."

From BBC • Apr. 1, 2026

The Wall Street Journal reported External link an executive order on Wednesday that punishes companies that were late on contracts or behind schedule.

From Barron's • Jan. 7, 2026

The Times said Thursday that the policy punishes newsgathering.

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 4, 2025

A co-crisis presents itself in Hildegard’s battles with Cuno, who punishes her by forbidding her to make music, which she ignores.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 7, 2025

It was a typical summer Miami afternoon where the humidity punishes any and all.

From "The Epic Fail of Arturo Zamora" by Pablo Cartaya