Need another word for Punitive? Use these synonyms of Punitive from our thesaurus to say it differently.
Synonyms & Similar Words
punitive
penal
disciplinary
corrective
castigatory
chastising
penalizing
retaliatory
vindictive
retributory
retaliative
disciplinary
correctional
chastening
reproachful
condemnatory
denunciatory
disapproving
censorious
reproving
scolding
admonitory
monitory
cautionary
exemplary
warning
deterrent
dissuasive
prohibitive
restrictive
repressive
oppressive
coercive
compulsive
obliging
enforceable
sanctioning
penalizing
fining
amercing
mulcting
confiscating
impounding
sequestering
forfeiting
Meaning of Punitive
The primary meaning of "punitive" is related to punishment.
Definitions
- Intended to punish someone for a crime or offense
- * Focused on punishing or penalizing someone for a mistake or wrongdoing
Etymology of Punitive
The word "punitive" originates from the Latin term "punire," which means to punish, and the suffix "-ive," which forms an adjective indicating a tendency or function
Historically, the word has been used since the 15th century to describe actions, measures, or systems aimed at punishing or penalizing individuals for their wrongdoing
Example Uses
- The punitive measures taken by the government were intended to deter future crimes
- * The company faced punitive damages for violating environmental regulations
- * The punitive approach to discipline has been criticized for being overly harsh and ineffective
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
lenient
gentle
mild
soft
tolerant
permissive
forgiving
merciful
compassionate
sympathetic
understanding
condoning
acquitting
exonerating
vindicating
absolving
exculpating
justifying
mitigating
palliating
extenuating
alleviating
relieving
comforting
consoling
soothing
calming
pacifying
appeasing
placating
propitiating
conciliating