Penal: meaning, definitions and examples

This word is often used in the context of legal systems to describe actions, methods, and systems related to punishment for crimes or offenses.

• The penal system in the country is undergoing reform.
• They faced severe penal consequences for their actions.

This word is used to describe actions that are intended to punish, often harshly, focusing more on retribution than on rehabilitation. It has a negative connotation.

• The new law imposed punitive taxes on polluting industries.
• The judge's punitive sentence was criticized as being too harsh.

Use this word in situations related to rules and regulations in organizations, workplaces, or schools. It pertains specifically to enforcing order and disciplining individuals who violate rules.

• The employee received disciplinary action for violating company policies.
• Disciplinary measures were taken against the student who cheated on the exam.

This term is used when referring to actions or measures aimed at correcting or improving behavior rather than purely punishing it.

• The school implemented corrective measures to address the students' behavior.
• Corrective feedback from the coach helped him improve his performance.

Use this word when referring to something related to punishment by law, often within a legal or correctional system.

• The new penal code was enacted to reduce crime rates.
• He studied penal systems in different countries for his research.

Used to describe laws, systems, or measures that are related to punishment, often by the government.

• The country has a strict penal code to deter crime.
• He studied penal law at the university.

A general term for any kind of negative consequence given as a result of breaking a rule or law. This term can have a negative connotation.

• His punishment for cheating was a month of detention.
• The punishment for theft is usually imprisonment.

Applied when referring to a monetary charge imposed as a penalty for an offense.

• She had to pay a fine for parking illegally.
• The company faced heavy fines due to regulatory violations.

Often used in a legal or formal context to describe official orders or laws stopping trade or communication with another country or organization, but can also refer to penalties for not following rules or regulations.

• The United Nations imposed economic sanctions on the country.
• The company faced sanctions for not complying with safety regulations.