adj C2 Proficient Uncommon

punitive

PYOO-nih-tihv

Punitive (adj) means Intended as a punishment, or inflicting one. Example: “The government imposed punitive tariffs on imports.”

adj

Intended as a punishment, or inflicting one.

"The government imposed punitive tariffs on imports."

How to Use Punitive

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishMeant to punish, especially through fines, taxes, or damages.

Common pairings

punitive damages punitive measures punitive tax

more punitive comparative, most punitive superlative

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Can you complete this real example?

The government imposed _____ tariffs on imports.

From Medieval Latin punitivus, from punire, "to punish."

Origin: Medieval Latin

punitory

nonpunitive unpunitive

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What does “punitive” mean?

The word “punitive” means intended as a punishment, or inflicting one. In plain terms, meant to punish, especially through fines, taxes, or damages.

How do you pronounce “punitive”?

“Punitive” is pronounced PYOO-nih-tihv (/ˈpju.nɪ.tɪv/ in IPA).

How do you use “punitive” in a sentence?

Here is “punitive” used in a sentence: “The government imposed punitive tariffs on imports.”

What is the opposite of “punitive”?

The opposite of “punitive” — its antonyms — are nonpunitive and unpunitive.

What part of speech is “punitive”?

“Punitive” is an adjective.

Where does the word “punitive” come from?

The word “punitive” comes from Medieval Latin. From Medieval Latin punitivus, from punire, "to punish.".

Is “punitive” a common word?

“Punitive” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the C2 level.