B2noun1K

Penalty

UK /["/ˈpenəlti/"]/US /["/ˈpenəlti/"]/

Definition

a punishment for breaking a law, rule or contract

In simple words: A punishment for breaking a rule.

Examples

The player received a penalty for a foul during the match.
The company had to pay a heavy penalty for violating environmental regulations.
In the penalty shootout, she scored the winning goal.
He accepted the penalty of losing his driving license after the accident.
The penalty for late payment of the loan is quite high.
During the game, the referee awarded a penalty to the opposing team.

Usage notes

Used in formal contexts like sports, law, and contracts. Avoid in casual conversation unless discussing a specific game or legal situation.

Grammar pattern

penalty + for + action

Memory hint

Think of a 'pen' being crossed out when someone makes a mistake.

Collocations

harsh
heavy
hefty
impose
introduce
levy
fee
notice
ticket
on penalty of
under penalty of
penalty for
pay
suffer
accept
penalty for
penalty of
controversial
disputed
dodgy
award (somebody)
give (somebody)
concede
area
box
corner
penalty by
penalty from

Synonyms

punishment
sanction
consequence
retribution

Antonyms

reward
benefit

Common mistakes

Confusing with 'fine' which is monetary punishment.
Using 'penalty' in contexts unrelated to rules or laws.