Penalty

Pronunciation: /ˈpɛnəlti/

Definitions of penalty

noun a punishment imposed for breaking a law, rule, or contract

Example Sentences

A1 Speeding can result in a penalty.

A2 If you don't return the library book on time, you may have to pay a penalty.

B1 The company was fined a penalty for violating environmental regulations.

B2 The athlete received a penalty for unsportsmanlike conduct during the game.

C1 The penalty for tax evasion can include heavy fines and imprisonment.

C2 In professional soccer, a penalty kick is awarded for certain fouls committed in the penalty area.

Examples of penalty in a Sentence

formal The penalty for late submission of the assignment is a deduction of 10% of the total marks.

informal If you don't pay your bills on time, you'll incur a penalty.

slang I got a penalty for speeding on the highway.

figurative There is a heavy penalty for betraying your friends and family.

Grammatical Forms of penalty

• plural: penalties
• comparative: more penalty
• superlative: most penalty
• present tense: penalty
• future tense: will penalty
• perfect tense: have penalty
• continuous tense: is penalty
• singular: penalty
• positive degree: penalty
• infinitive: to penalty
• gerund: penalizing
• participle: penalized

Origin and Evolution of penalty

First Known Use: 1500 year

Language of Origin: Latin

Story behind the word: The word 'penalty' originated from the Latin word 'poena' meaning punishment or penalty.

Evolution of the word: Over time, the word 'penalty' has retained its original meaning of a punishment or fine imposed for breaking a rule or law. However, its usage has expanded to include consequences or repercussions for any undesirable actions or behaviors.