penalties - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
penalties Word Meanings
- a punishment for breaking a law or rule
- a disadvantage for failing to comply
- a financial charge or fee imposed
penalties Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
penalties Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈpɛn.əl.ti/
US
/ˈpɛn.əl.ti/
penalties Word Etymology
penalty = pene- (from 'pena' meaning 'pain') + -alty (suffix related to a state or condition). Originated from Latin 'poena' through Old French. Imagine a scene where someone faces a daunting consequence for their actions, feeling the 'pain' of the penalty.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I take a slow breath and move my hand to set the dial. With each tiny turn, the mechanism makes a shift and the balance changes under my fingers. penalty shows up as a pause, a moment to hold steady rather than rush. I let the situation unfold through small adjustments, keeping the pace and placing my focus just right.
Real Context
Penalty has several common meanings. In law, a penalty is a punishment for breaking a rule, and it may be a fine or another form of sanction. It can also refer to a disadvantage or consequence that results from not complying, such as losing points or extra costs. In finance or business, a penalty is a charge imposed for late payment or contract breaches. In sports, a penalty is a sanctioned action that can award a free kick or other advantage. Learners should notice typical collocations like pay a penalty, incur a penalty, receive a penalty, and penalty kick. The word often carries a formal tone, but everyday contexts use it for penalties or inconveniences too.
Usage Reminders
- - Learn common collocations: pay a penalty, incur a penalty, receive a penalty
- - Distinguish penalty from punishment; not all penalties are punishments in the moral sense
- - In sports, remember penalty can lead to a free kick or penalty kick
- - Use the noun form correctly with count: a penalty, several penalties
- - Reserve penalty for formal rules or contractual contexts, not casual mistakes
Common Misconceptions
- It always means a monetary fine
- It is only used in formal legal contexts
- It cannot refer to sports situations
- Penalty is a verb form; you say penalty someone
- It is interchangeable with punishment in every context
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker (meta, keep short)
Learning Tips
- Learn the main meanings as separate senses: punishment, consequence, and financial charge
- Practice collocations: pay a penalty, incur a penalty, receive a penalty
- Remember sport-specific uses: penalty kick, penalty box
- Differentiate penalty from punishments in casual vs formal contexts
- Countability matters: a penalty vs penalties
- Use examples from law, business, and sports to reinforce sense
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the definition of 'penalties'?
A.Rewards for good behavior
B.A type of food
C.Punishments imposed for breaking rules
D.A form of entertainment
Step 2: Usage
Choose the sentence that uses 'penalties' correctly.
A.The athlete received penalties for his outstanding performance.
B.There are severe penalties for violating traffic laws.
C.She enjoys reading about penalties in her free time.
D.He cooked a delicious meal with penalties.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'penalties'?
A.Incentives
B.Celebrations
C.Sanctions
D.Concessions
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'penalties'?
A.Rewards
B.Consequences
C.Sanctions
D.Condemnations
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context where penalties are applied?
A.A game where everyone wins a prize.
B.An individual facing fines for speeding.
C.Someone getting a birthday gift.
D.A team celebrating their victory.
Related Listening
🌱 Lite (Beginner)
🔥 Advanced
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