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sanctions

SANK-shunz ˈsæŋkʃənz

nounB2TOEFLIELTS

FormalPoliticalEconomic

Official permission or approval for an action (less common in this context). OR, more commonly in international relations: penalties or restrictions imposed by one or more states against another state to compel a change in policy.

In international relations, 'sanctions' almost exclusively refers to punitive measures. The older meaning of 'approval' is less common in modern usage, especially in this context.

The story behind the word. The word 'sanctions' comes from Latin `sanctio`, meaning 'an act of making holy or binding.' This root also gives us 'sanctuary' and 'saint.' In Roman law, `sanctio` referred to the clause of a law that fixed a penalty for its violation. This dual meaning of 'approval' and 'penalty' has persisted in English, though the punitive sense is far more common in modern international discourse.

Word relationships

penalties: A punishment imposed for breaking a law, rule, or contract; 'sanctions' are often broader, state-level punitive actions.
restrictions: Limiting conditions or measures; 'sanctions' are a type of restriction imposed as punishment.
embargoes: An official ban on trade or other commercial activity with a particular country; a specific type of economic sanction.

incentives: A thing that motivates or encourages one to do something.
rewards: A thing given in recognition of one's service, effort, or achievement.
aid: Help, typically of a practical nature.

Word family

sanction (verb): To give official permission or approval for (an action); to impose a penalty on.

Collocations

economic sanctions
impose sanctions
lift sanctions
international sanctions
UN sanctions
trade sanctions

Example sentences

"The United Nations Security Council voted to impose economic sanctions on the rogue state in response to its nuclear program." Discussing international policy.
"The severe sanctions crippled the country's oil exports and significantly impacted its economy." Referring to the impact of penalties.
"The committee gave its sanction to the new research proposal, allowing the project to proceed." Using the less common meaning (approval).

Memory hook

Think of 'SANK-shuns' – if a country misbehaves, its economy might 'sink' due to the punitive measures imposed by other nations. Penalties.

When not to use

For general approval, use 'approval,' 'permission,' or 'authorization.' For punishment, 'penalties' or 'restrictions' are alternatives, but 'sanctions' specifically implies official, often governmental, punitive measures.

Fun facts

The dual meaning of 'sanction' (permission vs. penalty) can be confusing. The context usually makes it clear which meaning is intended, especially in international relations where it almost always means penalties.