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.

Without an investment in the therapeutic parts of the criminal legal system, we seem to be inclined toward one of two extremes — permissiveness or punitiveness.

From Seattle Times • Aug. 2, 2023

For example, a 2003 literature review found that preschool teachers with a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education “were less authoritarian, and were rated higher in positive interaction and lower on punitiveness and detachment.”

From Slate • Feb. 9, 2023

They demonstrate that there are never stable periods of punitiveness or progressiveness; at all times, the “out” group is trying to push through the changes they desire.

From Slate • Jun. 10, 2022

It is increasingly clear that a core source of support for reform prosecutors comes from poorer, Blacker communities that bear the brunt of both violence and punitiveness.

From Slate • Jun. 10, 2022

The dramatic shift toward punitiveness resulted in a massive reallocation of public resources.

From "The New Jim Crow" by Michelle Alexander