Macmillan Dictionary

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Words used to describe punishments

carry

verb

if a crime carries a particular punishment, that is the punishment people will receive for committing it

commutable

adjective

a commutable punishment can be changed to one that is less severe

disciplinary

adjective

connected with the punishment of people who do not obey rules

exemplary

adjective

an exemplary punishment is extremely severe, so that other people will be afraid to commit a similar crime

just

adjective

a just reward or punishment is one that is deserved

lenient

adjective

used about the punishment itself

light

adjective

a light punishment is not very severe

mild

adjective

a mild punishment or criticism is not very severe

penal

adjective

relating to the punishment of criminals

penal

adjective

used as a place for punishing criminals

sound

adjective

a sound punishment is severe

leniently

adverb

cyberloafing

using the Internet where you work, during working hours, for activities which are not work-related

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higgledy-piggledy

mixed together in a way that is not planned, organized, or tidy

Open Dictionary

show a bit of ankle

… to reveal a small part of your intentions in order to attract support, without actually committing yourself to doing anything

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