sanction
/ˈsæŋkʃən/
Group 7Difficulty 2/3
Definitions
- (noun)
- A threatened penalty for disobeying a rule GRE
- (verb)
- To give official permission or approval GRE
Example in Context
The international community debated whether to impose additional sanctions on the regime or to sanction renewed diplomatic engagement.
Synonyms
approveauthorizepermit
Etymology
A DECREED penalty for breaking rules.
- sanctio (Latin) — a decree
Memory Aid
⚖️Sounds like “sank shun”
If you SANK in a SHUN, you’ll face SANCTIONS for breaking the law!
Visual Association
🚫A big red stop sign with a gavel and handcuffs, enforcing strict penalties.
Semantic Clusters
Synonym Groups
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “sanction” mean on the GRE?
sanction (noun) means “A threatened penalty for disobeying a rule”. The international community debated whether to impose additional sanctions on the regime or to sanction renewed diplomatic engagement.
How to remember “sanction” for the GRE?
Mnemonic: “sanction” sounds like “sank shun”. If you SANK in a SHUN, you’ll face SANCTIONS for breaking the law!
What are synonyms for “sanction”?
Common synonyms: approve, authorize, permit.