Penalized Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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penalized

[ˈpiːnəlaɪzd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

legal context

To penalize means to impose a punishment or a consequence for a violation of rules or laws. This can occur in various scenarios, such as sporting events, legal infractions, or academic settings. Penalties can take many forms, from fines and suspensions to loss of privileges. The aims of penalization often include deterrence, reparation, or retribution.

Synonyms

disciplined, fined, punished, sanctioned.

Examples of usage

  • The player was penalized for unsportsmanlike conduct.
  • Students may be penalized for cheating on exams.
  • The company was penalized for violating safety regulations.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Legal System

  • In legal terms, being penalized often involves fines, community service, or imprisonment based on the severity of the offense.
  • Different countries have varying laws on penalties, reflecting cultural attitudes toward justice and rehabilitation.

Sports

  • In sports, teams or players can be penalized for rule violations, which often leads to loss of points or fouls against them.
  • Penalties can change the dynamics of a game significantly, affecting strategies and player behavior.

Psychology

  • Penalties can deter people from engaging in undesirable behavior, a concept rooted in behaviorism.
  • However, heavy penalties may also lead to negative psychological effects, such as increased anxiety or rebellion in some individuals.

Cultural Views

  • Different cultures view penalties differently; some emphasize restorative justice rather than punitive measures.
  • In some cultures, public shaming is a form of penalty, reflecting societal values around accountability and morality.

Origin of 'penalized'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'penalized' comes from 'penal,' which relates to punishment and stems from the Latin 'poena,' meaning punishment.
  • The modern usage began to take form in the late 19th century, where it became commonly associated with legal and sports contexts.

The term 'penalized' originates from the root word 'penal', which comes from the Latin word 'poena', meaning 'punishment'. The transition into English occurred around the late Middle Ages, where it was used in legal contexts to discuss punishments and sanctions. Over time, the verb form 'to penalize' emerged, referring specifically to the act of applying penalties. This evolution reflects societal attitudes towards justice and the enforcement of rules in various areas such as law, sports, and education. The use of the term has broadened, allowing it to encompass a variety of contexts where consequences are applied for rule-breaking or inappropriate behavior.


Word Frequency Rank

With rank #18,802, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.