should be sanctioned

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "should be sanctioned" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the need for punishment or disciplinary action in response to a particular behavior or action. Example: "The actions of the employee were unethical and should be sanctioned to maintain the integrity of the organization."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

40 human-written examples

Rumors should be sanctioned under the law.

The New York Times

The administration is still investigating the Compton Cookout, and whether students can or should be sanctioned.

The New York Times

"The dealers who sold the C.D.O.'s to this credit union should be sanctioned," he said.

The New York Times

He said that whatever force was assembled should be sanctioned by the United Nations Security Council.

The New York Times

Businesses that do not comply with the rules should be sanctioned on a national level.

The New York Times

Daredevils who endanger the lives of others should be sanctioned, not glorified.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

18 human-written examples

There should be sanctions against developers who breach these agreements and we need to get tougher on developers in terms of affordable housing.

The Guardian - Money

"One school of thought said that there should be sanctions imposed on South Africa, that American companies should be prohibited from operating in South Africa, that there shouldn't be any trade with South Africa.

The New York Times

Whether the rules should be codified in new legislation, and whether there should be sanctions for researchers who break them, is as yet unclear, says Ronald Atlas, president of the American Society for Microbiology and a member of the panel.

Science Magazine

She said the public is "already utterly frustrated at the inability to reach a consensus" and that there should be sanctions for parties "who fail to engage seriously and show leadership".

BBC

Respondents considered it appropriate to link CPC with registration to practice and that there should be sanctions against those who do not meet CPC requirements.

BMC Medical Education

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "should be sanctioned" when the situation involves a breach of rules, regulations, or ethical standards, making the application of sanctions an appropriate response.

Common error

Avoid using "should be sanctioned" in casual or informal settings where less formal language is more appropriate. Opt for alternatives like "should be reprimanded" or "should be told off" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "should be sanctioned" functions as a passive voice construction, indicating that someone or something is the recipient of a sanction. Ludwig examples confirm its role in expressing the need for consequences due to violations of rules or standards.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Science

19%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

The Guardian - Money

2%

The New York Times - Arts

2%

The New York Times - Sports

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "should be sanctioned" is a common and grammatically correct construction used to express the opinion that a specific action or behavior warrants a penalty or disciplinary measure. As noted by Ludwig AI, its primary function is to advocate for accountability and adherence to established norms, finding frequent usage in news, science, and formal business contexts. When employing this phrase, clarity and context are paramount, ensuring the actions warranting sanction and the authority imposing it are clearly defined. While generally suitable for formal discussions, avoiding its overuse in casual settings maintains an appropriate tone. Consider alternatives like "ought to be penalized" or "deserves to be punished" for nuanced meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

ought to be penalized

Emphasizes the moral obligation or duty to impose a penalty.

deserves to be punished

Highlights the idea that the action warrants punishment.

warrants disciplinary action

Focuses on the need for formal measures to address misconduct.

merits a penalty

Indicates that a penalty is appropriate or justified.

is subject to sanctions

States that the action falls under existing rules that impose penalties.

must face consequences

Emphasizes the unavoidable repercussions of an action.

requires a reprimand

Suggests a formal expression of disapproval is necessary.

calls for punitive measures

Indicates that action requires harsh or retaliatory penalties.

demands accountability

Focuses on the need for someone to take responsibility and face the consequences.

needs to be held accountable

Emphasizes the need to ensure someone is responsible for their actions.

FAQs

What does "should be sanctioned" mean?

The phrase "should be sanctioned" means that someone or something deserves to face penalties or disciplinary actions for violating rules, laws, or ethical standards.

What can I say instead of "should be sanctioned"?

You can use alternatives like "ought to be penalized", "deserves to be punished", or "warrants disciplinary action" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "should be sanctioned"?

It's appropriate when discussing formal situations where rules or laws have been broken, and consequences are necessary. For less formal situations, consider alternatives like "requires a reprimand" or "needs to be held accountable".

Is "should be sanctioned" the same as "must be sanctioned"?

While both suggest penalties, "must be sanctioned" implies a stronger, more obligatory tone than "should be sanctioned". "Should" indicates a recommendation or advisability, while "must" implies a requirement or necessity.