Sanction
mediumSANGK-shun
verb
Definition
To give official permission or approval for an action; or a penalty for disobeying a law or rule
Examples
“The committee sanctioned the new policy.”
“The country faced economic sanctions for human rights violations.”
Synonyms
Antonyms
Categories
GRE Tip
Sanction is a medium-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "authorize" or "approve" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "forbid".
Related GRE Words
endorse
To declare one's public approval or support of
ephemeral
Lasting for a very short time; transitory
abate
To reduce in amount, degree, or intensity
benevolent
Well-meaning and kindly; generous and charitable
admonish
To warn or reprimand someone firmly
pragmatic
Dealing with things sensibly and realistically; practical
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