Punish Meaning in English
word
Definition
To make someone suffer a consequence because they did something wrong or broke a rule. It can also mean treating someone or something harshly in a way that feels like a penalty.
Usage & Nuances
Common patterns: 'punish someone for something' and 'punish someone by doing something'. Stronger and more formal than 'tell off'. It is used for parents, schools, laws, and sports, and also in expressions like 'The market punished the company' for a bad decision.
Example Sentences
Teachers should not punish students for asking questions.
basic
The law can punish people who steal.
basic
He was punished for breaking the window.
basic
Don’t punish yourself for one bad day—just start again tomorrow.
natural
Fans will punish the team if they stop trying in the second half.
natural
The market tends to punish companies that ignore customer complaints.
natural