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sanctions

SANK-shunz /ˈsæŋkʃənz/

noun (plural)C1GRETOEFLIELTS

formalpoliticaleconomic

Measures taken by a state or international organization to compel another state to conform to international law or norms, typically by imposing restrictions on trade, finance, or travel.

These are punitive measures, usually non-military, designed to pressure a target state or entity into changing its behavior. They can be economic, diplomatic, or individual.

The story behind the word. The word 'sanctions' comes from the Latin 'sanctio', meaning 'an act of making holy or binding'. It originally referred to a clause in a law that enforced observance, often with a penalty. Over time, it evolved to mean both official approval (to 'sanction' something) and, more commonly in international relations, a penalty or coercive measure to enforce compliance with a law or agreement.

Word relationships

penalties: Penalties is a broader term for punishment, while sanctions specifically refer to international coercive measures.
embargoes: An embargo is a specific type of sanction, a ban on trade with a particular country.
restrictions: Restrictions are limitations, which sanctions often involve, but sanctions are specifically punitive.

incentives: Things that encourage action, the opposite of punitive measures.
rewards: Positive reinforcement, contrasting with punishment.

Commonly confused with

embargo: An embargo is a specific type of sanction (a ban on trade); sanctions is the broader term for various coercive measures.

Word family

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

Collocations

impose sanctions
lift sanctions
economic sanctions
travel sanctions
UN sanctions
targeted sanctions

Example sentences

"The United Nations imposed severe economic sanctions on the country in response to its continued nuclear weapons program." International relations.
"The international sporting body threatened sanctions against any athlete found guilty of doping." Sporting context (different sense, but shows range).

Memory hook

Think of 'sanctuary' (a protected place). Sanctions are meant to 'sanction' (punish) those who violate international 'sanctity' (laws/norms). Punitive Measures

When not to use

Do not use 'sanctions' for simple penalties or fines in a domestic legal context; it specifically refers to international punitive measures.

Fun facts

Sanctions are often debated for their effectiveness and potential humanitarian impact, as they can sometimes harm the general population more than the targeted regime.