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sanction

sanc·tion

sanction

 
 
pronunciation:
saengk shn
parts of speech:
noun, transitive verb
features:
Word Combinations (noun, verb), Word Explorer
part of speech: noun
definition 1: an official or authoritative approval, as of an action, behavior, or the like; permission.
Under pressure from citizen groups, the city council refused to give sanction to the building project.
synonyms:
approval, authorization, consent, imprimatur, leave, license, permission, warranty
antonyms:
interdict
similar words:
approbation, blessing
definition 2: societal or public support for an action, course of action, or behavior.
The mayor's decision had the sanction of the people.
synonyms:
approval, assent, consent
definition 3: something intended to ensure compliance with a law, such as a penalty for disobedience.
Sanctions are in place to prevent such shady dealings.
synonyms:
determent, penalty
definition 4: an action taken by one or more nations and designed to force another nation to comply with a legal, ethical, or moral code.
The Council will impose sanctions on the small country if it continues to violate international laws.Trade has resumed now that economic sanctions have been lifted.
definition 5: a principle, consideration, or influence that lends binding force to a moral law, rule of conduct, or the like.
definition 6: an official decree or law.
Word CombinationsSubscriber feature About this feature
 
part of speech: transitive verb
inflections: sanctions, sanctioning, sanctioned
definition 1: to authorize or permit; allow.
She sanctioned her son to sell her house and her other property.
synonyms:
allow, authorize, empower, permit, warrant
antonyms:
interdict
similar words:
accredit, approve, countenance, endorse, entitle, legalize, license, pass, privilege, ratify
definition 2: to approve of; support.
The school does not sanction such behavior, and I can assure you that those who took part will be punished.The town does not sanction swimming in its reservoir but many do it just the same.Her father reluctantly sanctioned her leaving home and getting her own apartment.
synonyms:
allow, approve, back, endorse
similar words:
condone, consent, countenance, encourage, hold a brief for, OK, ratify, support
Word CombinationsSubscriber feature About this feature
derivations: sanctionable (adj.), sanctioned (adj.), sanctioner (n.)
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  behavior, law