Cool MatePenalize
UK //ˈpiːnəlaɪz//US //ˈpiːnəlaɪz//
Definition
To subject someone to a penalty for a wrongdoing.
In simple words: To punish someone for their actions.
Examples
- The school decided to penalize students for skipping classes.
- Failure to comply with the regulations will penalize the company heavily.
- They aim to penalize offenders as a deterrent to future violations.
- The athlete was penalized for using performance-enhancing drugs.
- Laws are in place to penalize companies that pollute the environment.
Usage notes
Used in legal, educational, or formal contexts. Avoid using in casual situations. Often relates to rules or laws.
Grammar pattern
penalize + object
Memory hint
Think of a judge penalizing someone for breaking the law.
Collocations
- penalize behavior
- penalize rule violations
- penalize unfair practices
Synonyms
- punish
- discipline
- sanction
- penal
- chastise
Antonyms
- reward
- pardon
- forgive
Common mistakes
- Confused with 'penalty' - penalize is a verb, while penalty is a noun.
- Using in past tense without correct context - 'penalized' may imply a completed action.
- Mistakenly use 'penalize for' without direct object - needs a clear reason.