penalty
punishment for breaking a ruleThe referee awarded a penalty for the foul.
A penalty was given because a player broke the rules.
A punishment imposed for breaking a rule or law
The court imposed a financial penalty for the violation.
A monetary punishment was given for breaking the law.
In legal contexts, penalties can be fines, imprisonment, or other sanctions.
In sports, a penalty is a disadvantage given to a team for breaking rules
The soccer team was given a penalty kick after the foul.
A penalty kick was awarded because of a rule violation.
Penalties in sports vary by game (e.g., penalty shots in hockey, free throws in basketball).
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Pro Tip
Sports vs. Legal Use
In sports, a penalty is a disadvantage; in law, it's a punishment.
Gold Rule
Context Matters
Always check if 'penalty' is used in sports, law, or general contexts.
Word Origin
From Latin 'poenalis' (of punishment), from 'poena' (punishment).
Usage Notes
In sports, 'penalty' often refers to a specific play or advantage given to the opposing team. In law, it refers to legal consequences.