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Punitively: meaning, definitions and examples

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punitively

 

[ ˈpjuːnɪtɪvli ]

Adverb
Context #1 | Adverb

legal context

Punitively refers to actions that are undertaken primarily for the purpose of punishment, rather than to provide restitution or support. This term is commonly used in legal situations where a court imposes a penalty that goes beyond mere compensation, intended to deter the offender and others from committing similar acts. It underscores the concept of punitive damages, which are awarded in civil cases to punish the wrongdoer and set an example.

Synonyms

disciplinarily, punishingly, retributively

Examples of usage

  • The company was fined punitively for its environmental violations.
  • She faced punitively high costs for her negligence.
  • The judge ruled punitively against the defendant to discourage future offenses.

Translations

Translations of the word "punitively" in other languages:

🇵🇹 punitivamente

🇮🇳 दंडात्मक रूप से

🇩🇪 bestraffend

🇮🇩 secara hukuman

🇺🇦 покаранням

🇵🇱 karnie

🇯🇵 罰的に (ばつてきに)

🇫🇷 punitivement

🇪🇸 punitivamente

🇹🇷 cezalandırıcı bir şekilde

🇰🇷 처벌적으로

🇸🇦 عقابياً

🇨🇿 trestně

🇸🇰 trestne

🇨🇳 惩罚性地 (chéngfá xìng de)

🇸🇮 kaznovalno

🇮🇸 refsingarlega

🇰🇿 жазалау түрінде

🇬🇪 სჯულად

🇦🇿 cəzalandırıcı şəkildə

🇲🇽 punitivamente

Word origin

The term 'punitively' is derived from the Latin word 'punire', which means 'to punish'. This root is foundational in the development of many legal terms in English. The evolution of the word can be traced back to the introduction of punitive measures in legal systems to address wrongdoings effectively. As societies advanced, the concept of punishment evolved, leading to the creation of laws that specify not only punitive actions but also the rationale behind them. 'Punitively' became more prevalent in legal literature, especially in the context of damages, where the goal is both punishment and deterrence. Over time, the use of the word has expanded into broader contexts, including moral and ethical discussions surrounding punishment.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #40,043, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.