sanction - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
sanction Word Meanings
- a penalty for disobeying a rule
- official approval or permission
- to impose a penalty or restriction
sanction Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
sanction Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈsæŋkʃən/
US
/ˈsæŋkʃən/
sanction Word Etymology
Sanction = sanc- (from Latin 'sancire' meaning 'to make sacred') + -tion (a suffix forming nouns). Historical origin: Latin → Old French → English. Memory image: Imagine a person receiving a formal badge of approval after swearing to uphold the law, representing both special privilege and potential penalties.
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 move my hand to the switch and push it, feeling the click settle in my palm (move). The screen changes: a green tick appears for approval, or a red flag stays, and the path ahead shifts with a clearer or heavier weight. I hold my breath, adjust my stance, and decide whether to let this through or pause it. That small act becomes a sanction, a quiet power to approve or restrain in the next steps.
Real Context
Sanction is a versatile English word with two main meanings that can be tricky to tell apart. As a noun, it can mean a penalty or restriction imposed for breaking a rule, such as trade sanctions or academic sanctions. It can also mean official approval or permission, as in sanctions granted for a project. As a verb, to sanction something is to impose a penalty or to authorize it, depending on context. The two senses are usually separated by topic and tone: penalties show up in politics, law, and diplomacy, while permissions appear in governance and organizational settings. Learners should look for context cues about who acts, what is being allowed or punished, and the surrounding verbs to decide the meaning.
Usage Reminders
- Remember both meanings; use context clues to decide. Do not assume sanction always means allow. Collocate with 'impose' or 'lift' for penalties; with 'grant' or 'approve' for permissions. Check who is doing the sanction and who is affected. Distinguish nouns from verbs by surrounding verbs. Practice with current events to see real usage.
Common Misconceptions
- Sanction never means permission in modern usage, except in rare historical contexts.
- The noun is usually a penalty or restriction, not a reward.
- To sanction (verb) can mean approve in some older or formal contexts, leading to confusion.
- Ignore ‘lift’ vs ‘impose’ without a clear object: sanctions are not lifted without terms.
- Mixing up with ‘censure’ or ‘condemn’—sanctions imply an official action by authorities.
Thinking Differences
English learners should note the dual nature of sanction and watch for collocations that reveal penal or approving meanings; context and subject matter are key.
Learning Tips
- Learn both senses first, then memorize common collocations.
- Practice with current events to see sanctions in news.
- Remember phrases: impose sanctions, lift sanctions, grant sanctions.
- Compare with penalties (punishments) and permissions (approval).
- Use the verb form carefully: sanction vs sanctioning.
- Create quick flashcards for noun vs verb usage.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does the word 'sanction' mean?
A.Puppy
B.Rainbow
C.Approval
D.Jump
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses 'sanction' correctly?
A.The school principal sanctioned the use of cell phones during class.
B.I saw a sanction in the sky yesterday.
C.Please bring me a sanction from the grocery store.
D.Let's go to the beach and sanction in the sun.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'sanction'?
A.Acceptance
B.Disapprove
C.Banana
D.Applause
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'sanction'?
A.Forbid
B.Permit
C.Support
D.Encourage
Step 5: Mastery
Can you give an example of a real-life scenario of 'sanction'?
A.I like to read books by the beach on a sunny day.
B.The birds were chirping happily in the morning.
C.The government imposed sanctions on the country for violating human rights.
D.It's important to stay hydrated during exercise.
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