punishable by law

USAGE SUMMARY

"punishable by law" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It means that an action or behavior can result in legal consequences or penalties. One could use this phrase when discussing a crime or illegal behavior, such as: - The theft of property is punishable by law. - Discrimination on the basis of race is not only morally wrong, but also punishable by law. - The company's failure to follow safety regulations is punishable by law and could result in heavy fines.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Additionally, marijuana intoxication is often punishable by law, with punishments ranging from minor to severe depending on the local jurisdiction.

WikiHow

Crimes such as embezzlement are punishable by law.

The Economist

But sexual advances aren't punishable by law, either.

The Economist

These words are officially sacred: any challenge to what they represent is punishable by law.

The Economist

"It says genocide is genocide and it is punishable by law".

The New York Times

Homosexuality is punishable by law in Malaysia by caning and up to 20 years in jail.

The Guardian - Opinion

Although an offence punishable by law, Gainsbourg would feel the heat from a different direction.

The Guardian - Music

It is generally condemned by Islam, Judaism, and Christianity, and suicide attempts are punishable by law in many countries.

Encyclopedia Britannica

However, Ouwe said a gay marriage ceremony would constitute obscenity and an affront to public order punishable by law.

The Guardian

It reads as if he would be willing to acknowledge everything but insists he did nothing punishable by law.

The New Yorker

Damaging such a site is punishable by law, but not building right next to it, said Takahiko Noguchi, a city-planning official in Tokyo.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing legal matters, use "punishable by law" to clearly indicate actions that have legal consequences.

Common error

Avoid using "punishable by law" in casual conversations. Opt for simpler terms like "illegal" or "against the rules" for everyday situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "punishable by law" functions as an adjectival phrase, modifying a noun (often an action or behavior) to indicate that it is subject to legal penalties. Ludwig confirms this is a correct and usable phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

59%

Wiki

10%

Science

9%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

7%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "punishable by law" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression that describes actions or behaviors subject to legal penalties. Ludwig AI confirms its validity. It is most commonly found in news and media, encyclopedias, and legal documents, signifying its prevalence in formal and objective contexts. While generally appropriate, its formality may make it unsuitable for casual conversations where simpler terms like "illegal" or "against the rules" might be more fitting. Understanding its proper usage ensures clear and accurate communication regarding legal consequences.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

subject to legal repercussions

Focuses on the legal consequences one might face.

liable under the law

Highlights legal responsibility for an action.

legally actionable

Emphasizes that legal action can be taken.

a crime under the statutes

Specific to actions defined as criminal by law.

against the law

A simpler and more general way to say something is illegal.

an offense prosecutable in court

Focuses on the process of legal prosecution.

under penalty of law

Emphasizes the punitive aspect of breaking the law.

prohibited by legislation

Highlights that a specific law forbids the action.

in violation of the law

More formal and general way to express illegality.

illegal under the rules

Broader than law; includes regulations and rules.

FAQs

How to use "punishable by law" in a sentence?

Use "punishable by law" to describe actions that can lead to legal penalties. For example, "The act of stealing a car is "punishable by law"."

What can I say instead of "punishable by law"?

You can use alternatives like "against the law", "illegal", or "prohibited by law" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "punishable by law" or "punishable under the law"?

"Punishable by law" and "punishable under the law" are both correct, though ""punishable by law"" is more common. Both phrases indicate that an action can be penalized according to legal statutes.

What's the difference between "punishable by law" and "subject to legal action"?

"Punishable by law" specifically implies that a penalty will be imposed based on legal statutes. "Subject to legal action" is broader and could include lawsuits or other non-criminal legal proceedings.