Find Synonyms

sanction Synonyms

Another word for sanction

Choosing another word for sanction depends on context, so the 27 synonyms and similar words below are separated across 4 exact definitions and ranked by match strength.
JUMP TO:

• 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
penalty
Strong
embargo
punishment
boycott
deterrent
fine
Weak
tariff

• verb (Context 2)

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

Usage Example

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

Strongest
authorize
approve
endorse
ratify
Strong
permit
validate
sign off on
certify

• 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 penalize the corporation for failing to meet environmental safety standards."

Strongest
penalize
punish
Strong
discipline
fine
censure
boycott

• 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 approval of the ministry of culture."

Strongest
approval
authorization
permission
endorsement
Strong
consent
ratification
imprimatur
green light

Opposites of sanction

The opposite of sanction shifts depending on context. Common opposites include:

forbid
prohibition
prohibit
ban
veto
reward
incentive
disallow
See all opposites of sanction

Cite this Entry


Wordmom. (2026). Synonyms for Sanction. In Wordmom Thesaurus. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/synonyms/sanction
Built for writers, students, and competitive word game players, Wordmom combines an uncluttered English dictionary and thesaurus with fast, pattern-based word finders so you can verify definitions, synonyms, and high-scoring tile plays in one place.
Dictionary & Reference
© 2016–2026 Wordmom Network. All rights reserved. Made with for word lovers everywhere.
Disclaimer: SCRABBLE® is a registered trademark. All intellectual property rights in and to the game are owned in the U.S.A. and Canada by Hasbro Inc., and throughout the rest of the world by J.W. Spear & Sons Limited of Maidenhead, Berkshire, England, a subsidiary of Mattel Inc. Mattel and Spear are not affiliated with Hasbro. Words With Friends® is a registered trademark of Zynga Inc. Wordle® is a registered trademark of The New York Times Company. Other referenced game titles and tournament lexicon codes (including NASPA NWL and WESPA/HarperCollins CSW) are trademarks of their respective owners. Wordmom is an independent reference utility for educational and entertainment purposes and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Hasbro, Mattel, Spear, Zynga, The New York Times Company, NASPA, WESPA, or HarperCollins Publishers. All game names are referenced strictly under nominative fair use to indicate compatibility.