Synonyms of penalize

penalize

verb

ˈpē-nə-ˌlīz 

as in to punish

to inflict a penalty on for a fault or crime

the player was penalized for unsportsmanlike conduct

Synonyms & Similar Words

• punish
• fine
• chastise
• criticize
• correct
• discipline
• castigate
• sentence
• impose
• assess
• convict
• chasten
• condemn
• levy
• dock
• charge
• denounce
• mulct
• reprimand
• wreak
• damn
• reprove
• rebuke
• keelhaul

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• excuse
• spare
• pardon
• forfeit
• release
• get off
• ransom
• exonerate
• absolve
• vindicate
• commute
• acquit
• exculpate
• reprieve

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of penalize

California’s governor last week vetoed legislation that would have penalized the use of smart glasses to record people without their permission in places like changing rooms, doctor’s offices and other spaces people generally consider private. — Jamey Keaten, Los Angeles Times, 5 Oct. 2026

The Jaguars’ 13-3 halftime advantage would’ve been bigger if not for the team’s most penalized half of the season. — Zak Keefer, New York Times, 4 Oct. 2026

The committee said its investigation would continue as lawmakers consider legislation aimed at penalizing sanctuary jurisdictions and increasing cooperation with federal immigration authorities. — Kaelan Deese, The Washington Examiner, 1 Oct. 2026

Earlier this year, the UK government ordered Google to provide an AI opt-out for publishers that would not penalize them in organic search results. — Ryan Whitwam, ArsTechnica, 30 Sep. 2026