Sanctions: meaning, definitions and examples

Government or international actions taken to force another country to comply with laws or rules, often relating to economic or political consequences.

• The United Nations imposed sanctions on North Korea due to its nuclear weapons program
• Economic sanctions can severely hurt a country's economy

Punishments imposed for breaking a law, rule, or contract, commonly used in legal, sports, or organizational contexts.

• The driver received a penalty for speeding
• The company faced financial penalties for violating environmental regulations

Actions taken to penalize someone for wrongdoing, often in criminal, educational, or parental contexts. Generally carries a negative connotation.

• The student received a punishment for cheating on the exam
• Criminals often face severe punishments for their actions

Limitations or constraints placed on actions or behaviors, often for safety, legal, or other regulatory reasons.

• Travel restrictions were imposed during the pandemic
• The new law includes restrictions on the amount of emissions a factory can produce

Official bans on trade or other commercial activities with a particular country. Often used during political disputes or to pressure a country to change its behavior.

• The United States placed an embargo on Cuban goods for several decades
• An oil embargo can disrupt global markets

Used in legal, political, or economic contexts to describe official punishments or restrictions imposed on countries, organizations, or individuals.

• The United Nations imposed sanctions on the country for its human rights violations

Used to indicate formal consent or agreement to something, often in administrative, corporate or personal scenarios.

• The board of directors will meet tomorrow to approve the new budget plan

Used when granting official permission or power to someone to do something, typically in formal or professional settings.

• The manager authorized the release of the confidential report to the stakeholders

Used to indicate formal or official permission to do something, usually in everyday or bureaucratic contexts.

• You need a permit to park in this area overnight

Used to describe the act of punishing someone for breaking rules or laws, often in legal, sports, or professional scenarios. This carries a negative connotation.

• The referee decided to penalize the player for unsportsmanlike conduct during the game