Penalize Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

Add to dictionary

penalize

[ˈpiːnəˌlaɪz ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

in sports

To impose a penalty on someone for breaking a rule or committing a foul during a game or competition. The penalty can range from a minor warning to disqualification.

Synonyms

discipline, fine, punish.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
penalize

Used in legal or formal contexts when someone is subject to a penalty for breaking a rule or law.

  • The company was penalized for violating environmental regulations
punish

Generally used when referring to inflicting some form of penalty or suffering as a response to wrong behavior. Can have a negative connotation.

  • The parent punished their child for lying
  • Criminals are punished according to the severity of their crimes
fine

Typically used in legal or financial contexts where a monetary penalty is imposed for a wrongful act.

  • He was fined for parking illegally
  • The company faced a hefty fine for breaching safety laws
discipline

Applied in contexts of behavior correction, especially in educational or organizational settings, focusing on guiding or training someone to follow rules.

  • The teacher disciplined the students for talking during the lecture
  • The military is known for strict discipline

Examples of usage

  • The referee decided to penalize the player with a yellow card for his rough tackle.
  • If a team member is penalized, they may have to sit out for a certain amount of time.
  • The coach warned the team that they would be penalized for any unsportsmanlike behavior.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Law

  • Penalization often refers to legal systems where laws are established to maintain order and discipline in society.
  • Different countries have various systems of penalization that can include fines, imprisonment, or community service.
  • In some jurisdictions, penalization aims not only to punish but also to rehabilitate offenders.

Psychology

  • Penalizing behavior can influence future actions by instilling fear or motivating compliance with rules.
  • Studies show that while immediate penalties can deter undesirable actions, they can also lead to resentment and future rule-breaking.
  • In educational settings, punitive measures can affect student motivation, causing a debate on discipline vs. constructive feedback.

Sports

  • In sports, players can be penalized for actions like fouls or unsportsmanlike conduct, leading to free kicks or point deductions.
  • Different sports have specific rules that outline what actions warrant penalties, creating a framework for fair competition.
  • The implementation of video analysis in sports has changed how penalties are assessed, providing clarity and fairness.

Pop Culture

  • Movies often depict scenarios where characters face penalties for breaking laws or moral codes, highlighting thematic elements of justice.
  • In video games, players face penalties for losing lives or breaking game rules, furthering engagement and challenge.
  • Shows like 'Survivor' often illustrate social penalties players face for alliances and betrayal, adding complexity to interpersonal dynamics.

Origin of 'penalize'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'poena,' which means 'punishment.'
  • It entered the English language in the late 14th century, associated with legal and moral punishment.
  • Related words include 'penalty,' which refers to the consequence or punishment related to an action.

The word 'penalize' originated from the Latin word 'poena', meaning 'punishment'. It first appeared in the English language in the early 19th century. The concept of penalizing someone for breaking rules or laws has been a part of human societies for centuries, with various forms of penalties evolving over time to maintain order and discipline.


See also: penalise, penalty.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,381, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.