harsh sentencing

USAGE SUMMARY

"harsh sentencing" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to describe a sentence handed down by a judge, or the legal system overall. For example, "Johnny was convicted of a minor offense, but the judge handed down a harsh sentencing of two years in prison."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Harsh sentencing continued.

The Economist

Sarwar and her family are devastated at the harsh sentencing.

The Guardian

Prosecutors argued that harsh sentencing would protect the public from violent, youthful predators.

The New York Times

The state's prison population has soared as a result of harsh sentencing laws and parole rules.

The New York Times

It would have been a victory for the defendants, but for the shockingly harsh sentencing.

The Economist

When do you think harsh sentencing is appropriate for minors, if ever?

The New York Times

Both companies have been criticised for funding groups that lobby for harsh sentencing.

The Economist

Hers is "Attallah the Hun," for her harsh sentencing and manner.

The New York Times - Arts

The harsh sentencing of dissidents in China has awakened Hong Kong to the need to defend its liberties.

The New York Times

The powerlessness of poor defendants is becoming even more evident under harsh sentencing schemes created in the past few decades.

The New York Times

Mr. Ciongoli was there because neither the prosecution nor the defense was willing to support a particularly harsh sentencing decision from the federal appeals court in St . Louis

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "harsh sentencing" to describe situations where the punishment is considered disproportionate to the crime or when emphasizing the strictness of legal systems.

Common error

Avoid using "harsh sentencing" solely to evoke emotion. Ensure that the term is supported by factual details about the sentence and the crime to maintain objectivity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "harsh sentencing" functions as a noun phrase where "harsh" modifies "sentencing". It is used to describe the act of imposing a severe or strict penalty, as confirmed by Ludwig. It commonly refers to judicial decisions or legal systems.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "harsh sentencing" is a frequently used and grammatically sound phrase that refers to the imposition of severe legal penalties. Ludwig AI confirms its validity, showing its common application within the news and media sector. While the phrase carries a somewhat negative connotation, suggesting disproportionate or unfair punishment, its correct usage involves factual accuracy and contextual relevance. When writing about this topic, avoid emotional overuse and focus on objective details. Alternatives such as "severe punishment" or "strict penalties" can offer nuanced variations of the same core concept.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

excessive sentence

Directly criticizes the sentence as being beyond what is reasonable or just.

severe punishment

Focuses on the intensity of the punishment rather than the legal process.

strict penalties

Highlights the rigidity and inflexibility of the imposed consequences.

stiff sentence

A more informal way of describing a harsh or severe sentence.

draconian measures

Emphasizes the extreme severity and often oppressive nature of the actions taken.

tough justice

Implies a firm and uncompromising approach to the administration of law.

stringent sentencing guidelines

Specific to the rules and frameworks that dictate severe sentences.

punitive measures

Highlights the intent to punish as a primary goal.

heavy repercussions

Broadly indicates significant negative outcomes or effects.

vigorous prosecution

Focuses on the intensity of the legal pursuit and can imply a higher likelihood of severe penalties.

FAQs

How is "harsh sentencing" typically used in a sentence?

"Harsh sentencing" is generally used to describe the imposition of severe penalties by a court. For example, "The defendant received a "harsh sentencing" for the crime."

What are some alternatives to "harsh sentencing"?

Alternatives include "severe punishment", "strict penalties", or "excessive sentence", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "harsh sentencing" subjective, or does it have a legal definition?

While there isn't a precise legal definition, "harsh sentencing" generally refers to sentences perceived as disproportionately severe compared to the crime. This can be influenced by factors such as mandatory minimums or sentencing guidelines.

What factors might contribute to a "harsh sentencing"?

Factors can include the severity of the crime, prior criminal record, mandatory minimum sentencing laws, and judicial discretion. Public and political pressures can also influence sentencing decisions.