Synonyms of punitive

punitive

adjective

ˈpyü-nə-tiv 

as in correctional

inflicting, involving, or serving as punishment

any misbehavior was immediately met with a punitive response

the company had to pay a million dollars in punitive damages

Synonyms & Similar Words

• correctional
• penal
• corrective
• correcting
• disciplinary
• penalizing
• disciplining
• chastening
• retaliatory
• retributive
• revengeful
• chastising
• castigating
• vengeful
• wrathful
• retaliative
• retributory

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• compensatory
• nonpunitive
• exculpatory
• vindicating
• exculpating
• exonerating
• remitting
• pardoning
• condoning
• commuting
• absolving
• acquitting
• reprieving

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of punitive

Taking punitive action the same week an investigation was initiated appears to be without precedent. —Michael T. Nietzel, Forbes, 7 Mar. 2025

By moving away from punitive measures and embracing inclusive leadership, organizations can foster a committed and high-performing workforce, ensuring long-term success in an increasingly competitive landscape. —Chris Westfall, Forbes, 15 Mar. 2025

What happens if foreign countries respond with either tariffs or some other punitive measure? —Aroop Mukharji, Foreign Affairs, 14 Mar. 2025

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau posted a final message to Canadian citizens, a bit of a pep talk amid Donald Trump‘s threats of ever-more punitive tariffs and talk of the country becoming the U.S.’s 51st state. —Ted Johnson, Deadline, 13 Mar. 2025