penalty
/ˈpɛnəlti/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.