Find Antonyms

sanction Antonyms

Opposite of sanction

Because the opposite of sanction shifts with each meaning, the 17 antonyms and opposite words below are separated across 4 exact definitions and ranked by contrast strength.
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• noun (Context 1)

A threatened penalty or coercive measure, especially an economic or trade restriction imposed by one or more countries against another for violating international law or norms.

Usage Example

"The international coalition voted to impose strict economic sanctions on the regime until diplomatic talks resumed."

Strongest
incentive
reward
Strong
subsidy

• verb (Context 2)

To give official permission, approval, or ratification for an action or policy.

Usage Example

"The university board refused to prohibit the proposed tuition increase for the upcoming academic year."

Strongest
prohibit
forbid
ban
veto
disallow
Strong
outlaw
reject

• verb (Context 3)

To impose an official penalty, fine, or coercive measure on a state, organization, or individual.

Usage Example

"The regulatory commission decided to reward the corporation for failing to meet environmental safety standards."

Strongest
reward
Strong
exonerate
pardon
commend

• noun (Context 4)

Official permission, approval, or ratification granted by an authority for an action or practice.

Usage Example

"The archaeological excavation could not proceed without the formal prohibition of the ministry of culture."

Strongest
prohibition
veto
ban
Strong
refusal
disapproval
interdiction

Similar words to sanction

Words similar to sanction shift depending on context. Common synonyms include:

authorize
approve
penalize
authorization
approval
penalty
permission
endorse
See all synonyms of sanction

Cite this Entry


Wordmom. (2026). Antonyms for Sanction. In Wordmom Thesaurus. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/antonyms/sanction
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