exacting punishment

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "exacting punishment" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a punishment that is strict, severe, or demanding in nature. Example: "The judge was known for exacting punishment on those who broke the law, ensuring that justice was served."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

This mindset goes hand in hand with a moral righteousness which implants into good people's hearts and minds a penchant for exacting punishment on the grasshoppers – even if punishing them also punishes themselves (to some extent).

The Guardian - Opinion

It makes me question whether the techniques were ever about getting intelligence – or just exacting punishment.

The Guardian - Opinion

But exacting punishment for those acts ought not lead to the bankruptcy of institutions on which so many communities still depend.

The New York Times

However, in a decision of great historic significance, the Persian king Darius the Great decided that, despite successfully subduing the revolt, there remained the unfinished business of exacting punishment on Athens and Eretria for supporting the revolt.

Wikipedia

Part of these rules can range from somewhat commonsensical to outright arbitrary and strange; yet, they are fully enforced by prison guards, and if violated, are met with exacting punishment.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

Penal substitutionary theories, for example, maintain that it is morally impossible for God simply to forgive our sins without exacting reparation or punishment.

SEP

Education, furthermore, was rigid and exacting; the Hebrew word musar signifies at the same time education and corporal punishment.

Encyclopedia Britannica

It's very exacting".

The New York Times - Food

O poetry, ye brutal, exacting mistress!

The New Yorker

It was exacting and expensive work.

The New York Times - Arts

"He's exacting," Ms. Chancellor said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "exacting punishment" when you want to emphasize the strict and uncompromising nature of the consequences being applied. It suggests a firm commitment to justice or adherence to rules.

Common error

While grammatically correct, "exacting punishment" can sound overly formal or severe in everyday conversation. Consider simpler alternatives like "giving consequences" or "punishing" in less formal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "exacting punishment" primarily functions as a verbal phrase followed by a noun, where "exacting" modifies and intensifies the nature of the "punishment". It describes the act of administering a particularly strict or severe penalty. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "exacting punishment" is grammatically correct and denotes the act of administering a strict or severe penalty. Ludwig AI confirms its valid usage. While primarily found in news and media, as well as wiki and scientific contexts, its formal tone makes it most suitable for serious or analytical writing. Related phrases include "imposing penalties" and "administering retribution". When writing, remember that while accurate, the phrase can sound overly formal in informal settings, so simpler alternatives may be preferable.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

carrying out punishment

Focuses on the execution or implementation of a previously decided punishment.

meting out consequences

Emphasizes the careful assignment of appropriate penalties based on actions.

imposing penalties

Focuses on the act of administering a formal punishment or penalty.

enforcing penalties

Highlights the active process of making sure a punishment is applied.

administering retribution

Highlights the formal application of deserved consequences, often with a sense of justice or revenge.

inflicting penalties

Emphasizes the act of causing someone to experience a punishment.

applying sanctions

Similar to imposing sanctions, but with more focus on the direct application.

imposing sanctions

Suggests a formal or official action to enforce compliance.

decreeing punishment

Highlights the formal declaration or order of punishment.

dispensing justice

This phrase focuses on the fairness and impartiality of the punishment process.

FAQs

How to use "exacting punishment" in a sentence?

You can use "exacting punishment" to describe a situation where a penalty is applied strictly and without compromise. For example, "The legal system is responsible for "administering retribution"".

What can I say instead of "exacting punishment"?

You can use alternatives like "imposing penalties", "administering retribution", or "carrying out punishment" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "exacting punishment" or "exact punishment"?

"Exacting punishment" is the more common and grammatically sound phrase. "Exact punishment" can sound less natural and is not widely used.

In what contexts is "exacting punishment" most appropriate?

"Exacting punishment" is best used in formal contexts, such as legal, historical, or analytical writing, where the severity and just application of consequences are being emphasized. It is generally not recommended for informal conversation.