punitive measure
Penalty for wrongdoing
A punitive measure is an action taken to punish rather than to remedy or compensate.
Governments impose punitive measures like sanctions or tariffs against other nations: The council voted for punitive measures against the regime.
In law, punitive damages go beyond compensation to penalize wrongdoing.
The phrase emphasizes that the goal is punishment, not correction or deterrence.
- expulsionForced permanent removal
- travel banProhibition on journeys
- death penaltyLegal execution for crimes
- three-strikes lawsMandatory sentencing for recidivists
- zero tolerancePolicy allowing no infractions
community service · ostracism · fines · exile · asset forfeiture · economic sanctions · trade embargo · imprisonment · restitution · public shaming · cancel culture · naming and shaming · banishment · blacklisting · mob justice · deterrent · court-martial · disciplinary action
punitive measurereward
Payment for service
incentive · bonus · positive reinforcement · prize · commendation
punitive measurerestorative justice
Conflict resolution through mutual healing
amnesty · pardon · mediation · clemency · forgiveness