Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The task force recommends, among other reforms, that “sentences should not be punitively inflated simply because a defendant exercised” the right to a trial.

From Washington Post • Mar. 10, 2023

Even if she comes out of it OK, she will probably resent you for it, because it is a harsh tactic, and often deployed punitively.

From Slate • Jan. 5, 2023

“We disclosed we had been contacted by the L.A. Times about a case. Some 25 days later, he’s punitively transferred,” Jackson said.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 3, 2021

Companies are acting more swiftly and punitively than ever before.

From The Guardian • Dec. 4, 2017

When we cannot act advantageously, we may act punitively, so that the public servant may know that if he ignores or hypocritically juggles with our interests, he will be held to a strict accountability.

From The Negro and the elective franchise. A Series Of Papers And A Sermon (The American Negro Academy. Occasional Papers, No. 11.) by Cook, Charles C.