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.

She was also extremely rigid, moralistic and self-punishing and was quick to lash out with an acerbic tongue, including at me.

From Scientific American • Jun. 14, 2023

The frame of the show involves the singer’s self-punishing quest to perfectly pull off his 1992 Dangerous tour.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 3, 2022

His vast popularity within the military derives largely from his reputation for total, self-punishing commitment to his troops.

From New York Times • Mar. 26, 2018

It seemed quixotic and self-punishing, especially now that she had such great alternatives as creating her own foundation, and supporting female empowerment globally.

From The Guardian • Oct. 19, 2015

The jeweled bracelets were clasped again around the thinly boned joints, and on some self-punishing impulse she had shortened the chains so that she could not even put her arms around me.

From The Door Through Space by Bradley, Marion Zimmer