B1verb1K

Punish

UK /["/ˈpʌnɪʃ/","/ˈpʌnɪʃɪz/","/ˈpʌnɪʃt/","/ˈpʌnɪʃɪŋ/"]/US /["/ˈpʌnɪʃ/","/ˈpʌnɪʃɪz/","/ˈpʌnɪʃt/","/ˈpʌnɪʃɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to make somebody suffer because they have broken the law or done something wrong

In simple words: To make someone suffer for doing something wrong.

Examples

  • The teacher decided to punish the students for their poor behavior in class.
  • It is not fair to punish someone for something they didn't do.
  • Some parents believe that physical punishment is necessary to discipline their children.
  • In the game, players can punish their opponents by taking away points.
  • The law states that offenders will be punished according to the severity of their crimes.

Usage notes

Use 'punish' when referring to correcting bad behavior. It can be formal in legal contexts but neutral with parents or teachers. Avoid in casual situations.

Grammar pattern

punish + object

Memory hint

Sounds like 'punish' — imagine a judge giving a punishment.

Collocations

  • harshly
  • severely
  • justly
  • want to
  • try to
  • be designed to
  • by
  • for
  • with
  • be punished accordingly

Synonyms

  • discipline
  • penalize
  • correct
  • reprimand
  • chastise

Antonyms

  • reward
  • pardon
  • forgive

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'penalize' which is more formal.
  • Using it without an object, e.g., 'He was punished' without stating by whom.
  • Saying 'punish for', instead of 'punish someone for something'.