punitive
PYOO-nih-tihv
Punitive (adj) means Intended as a punishment, or inflicting one. Example: “The government imposed punitive tariffs on imports.”
adj
1
Intended as a punishment, or inflicting one.
"The jury awarded $10,000 in punitive damages."
"Beijing imposed punitive sanctions on Canada."
"The government imposed punitive tariffs on imports."
"The council took punitive measures against poachers."
How to use punitive
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishMeant to punish, especially through fines, taxes, or damages.
Common pairings
punitive damages
punitive measures
punitive tax
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Word forms
- Comparative
- more punitive
- Superlative
- most punitive
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The government imposed _____ tariffs on imports.
Etymology
From Medieval Latin punitivus, from punire, "to punish."
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
rehabilitative
nonpunitive
unpunitive
Related words
Rhymes for punitive
See all rhymes for punitive →Frequently asked questions
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.
