sanción in 30 Seconds
- A penalty for breaking rules or laws.
- Used in legal, political, and organizational contexts.
- Can be a fine, suspension, or other restrictive measure.
- Ensures compliance and deters bad behavior.
The Spanish word 'sanción' is a noun that translates directly to 'sanction' or 'penalty' in English. It refers to a measure taken against a person or group to ensure compliance with a law, rule, or treaty, often by imposing a punishment or restriction. It's used in various contexts, from legal and political spheres to everyday situations involving rules and consequences.
In international relations, a 'sanción' can be a diplomatic or economic measure imposed by one country or a group of countries on another to protest or punish its actions. For instance, a country might impose economic sanctions, like trade embargoes or asset freezes, to pressure another nation to change its behavior. These are often discussed in news reports about global politics.
Domestically, 'sanción' can refer to a penalty imposed by a government for breaking a law, such as a fine for speeding or a jail sentence for a more serious offense. It can also apply to rules within organizations, like a school or a workplace. If a student violates the school's dress code, they might receive a 'sanción', which could be detention or a warning. Similarly, an employee might face a 'sanción' for not adhering to company policies.
The core idea behind 'sanción' is the consequence for wrongdoing or non-compliance. It's a way to enforce standards and deter undesirable behavior. The severity of the 'sanción' often depends on the nature and seriousness of the infraction. It's a formal term, typically used when discussing rules, laws, and their enforcement mechanisms.
- Legal Context
- In legal proceedings, a 'sanción' is the punishment prescribed by law for a crime or violation. This could range from fines to imprisonment.
- International Relations
- When countries disagree, they might impose economic or diplomatic sanctions on each other to exert pressure.
- Organizational Rules
- Schools, clubs, and companies have their own set of rules, and breaking them can result in a sanction.
El gobierno impuso una severa sanción económica al país infractor.
Using 'sanción' correctly involves understanding its context. It's a noun, so it will typically be preceded by an article (el, la, una, las, etc.) or a possessive adjective. The gender of 'sanción' is feminine, so you'll see 'la sanción' or 'una sanción'.
In formal writing and speech, 'sanción' is frequently used when discussing laws, regulations, and their enforcement. For example, 'La ley establece una sanción para quienes no cumplan con las normas de seguridad.' (The law establishes a sanction for those who do not comply with safety regulations.) Here, 'sanción' refers to the penalty for non-compliance.
When talking about international affairs, 'sanción' is a common term. 'La comunidad internacional debatió la imposición de sanciones contra el régimen autoritario.' (The international community debated the imposition of sanctions against the authoritarian regime.) Notice the plural form 'sanciones' is used here, as multiple measures might be applied.
In less formal settings, but still within the realm of rules, 'sanción' can appear. For instance, 'El club de lectura aplicará una sanción a los miembros que no traigan el libro.' (The book club will apply a sanction to members who do not bring the book.) This shows how the word can be used for rules within smaller groups.
Consider these examples to grasp the nuances:
- Legal Penalty
- 'El juez dictaminó una sanción económica por fraude.' (The judge ruled an economic sanction for fraud.)
- Disciplinary Action
- 'Recibió una sanción disciplinaria por llegar tarde repetidamente.' (He received a disciplinary sanction for being repeatedly late.)
- Consequence of Rule-Breaking
- 'La sanción por no usar casco es una multa.' (The sanction for not wearing a helmet is a fine.)
Si rompes las reglas, habrá una sanción.
You'll frequently encounter the word 'sanción' in news broadcasts, particularly when discussing politics, international relations, and legal matters. News anchors and reporters often use it when detailing government actions, court rulings, or diplomatic disputes.
For example, a news segment about a country violating international treaties might state: 'La ONU ha considerado imponer una sanción diplomática.' (The UN has considered imposing a diplomatic sanction.) This highlights its use in formal geopolitical discussions.
In legal dramas or discussions about court cases, 'sanción' is also common. A lawyer might explain: 'La sanción para este delito puede ser de hasta cinco años de prisión.' (The sanction for this crime can be up to five years in prison.) This usage pertains to the punishment prescribed by law.
Beyond formal contexts, you might hear it in discussions about rules within specific communities or organizations. For instance, during a school board meeting, a member might say: 'Debemos establecer una sanción clara para el acoso escolar.' (We must establish a clear sanction for school bullying.)
Even in everyday conversations about minor infractions, the term can be used, though perhaps less formally. A parent might tell a child: 'Si no haces tus deberes, habrá una sanción.' (If you don't do your homework, there will be a sanction.)
- News Reports
- Common in segments about international politics, economics, and legal disputes.
- Legal Discussions
- Used when referring to punishments, fines, or penalties imposed by courts.
- Organizational Rules
- Heard in meetings or discussions about rules in schools, companies, or clubs.
- Everyday Rule Enforcement
- Can be used informally to describe consequences for breaking household or minor group rules.
El presidente habló sobre la sanción propuesta a la empresa.
One common mistake for English speakers is confusing 'sanción' with 'sanction' in English, which can have a slightly different range of meanings. While they are cognates, the Spanish 'sanción' often leans more towards a direct penalty or punishment for breaking a rule or law, whereas the English 'sanction' can also refer to an official approval or permission, especially in older or more specific contexts.
Another potential pitfall is gender agreement. 'Sanción' is a feminine noun. Therefore, it must be used with feminine articles and adjectives. Forgetting this can lead to errors like saying 'el sanción' instead of 'la sanción', or using masculine adjectives. For example, a correct sentence would be 'una sanción severa' (a severe sanction), not 'un sanción severo'.
Learners might also overuse 'sanción' in situations where a more general word for 'punishment' or 'consequence' would suffice in English. While 'sanción' is appropriate for official rules and laws, for very informal or personal consequences, words like 'castigo' (punishment) or 'consecuencia' (consequence) might be more natural, depending on the exact nuance.
A less frequent but possible error is misinterpreting the scope. 'Sanción' typically implies a formal or official penalty. Using it for very minor, informal reprimands might sound overly strong or out of place. For instance, telling someone 'recibí una sanción por llegar tarde a la fiesta' might sound a bit too formal if it was just a friend giving you a gentle tease.
Finally, confusion can arise with similar-sounding words or words with related meanings. While 'sanción' is about a penalty, words like 'prohibición' (prohibition) or 'restricción' (restriction) describe the rule itself or the limitation imposed, rather than the consequence of breaking it.
- Gender Agreement
- Remember 'sanción' is feminine. Use 'la' or 'una', and feminine adjectives.
- Overuse in Informal Settings
- While it can be used informally, it often implies a more official penalty. Consider 'castigo' or 'consecuencia' for less formal situations.
- Cognate Confusion
- The English 'sanction' can also mean approval. Spanish 'sanción' primarily means penalty or punishment.
Incorrecto: El niño recibió un sanción.
Correcto: La niña recibió una sanción.
While 'sanción' is a precise term for a penalty or punishment imposed for breaking a rule or law, several other Spanish words can convey similar ideas depending on the context and formality.
Castigo: This is a more general term for 'punishment'. It can be used in both formal and informal contexts, from a parent punishing a child to a legal sentence. 'Sanción' is often more specific to official rules, while 'castigo' can be broader. For example, 'El castigo por mentir fue no poder salir.' (The punishment for lying was not being allowed to go out.)
Multa: This specifically means 'fine'. It's a type of 'sanción' or 'castigo' that involves paying money. If the penalty is financial, 'multa' is the most appropriate term. For instance, 'Recibí una multa por exceso de velocidad.' (I received a fine for speeding.)
Penalización: This term is often used in sports, games, or business contexts. It refers to a penalty or disadvantage incurred due to a rule violation. For example, 'Hubo una penalización de cinco minutos para el equipo infractor.' (There was a five-minute penalty for the infringing team.) It's a specific type of consequence.
Consecuencia: This is a very general term for 'consequence'. It can be positive or negative. When referring to the negative outcome of breaking a rule, it can overlap with 'sanción', but 'sanción' implies an intentional imposition of penalty, whereas 'consecuencia' is simply what follows an action. 'La consecuencia de no estudiar es suspender el examen.' (The consequence of not studying is failing the exam.)
Reprimenda: This means 'reprimand' or 'rebuke'. It's a verbal or written expression of disapproval, often less severe than a formal 'sanción'. A teacher might give a student a 'reprimenda' for minor misbehavior.
- Sanción vs. Castigo
- 'Sanción' is typically for official rules/laws; 'Castigo' is a more general term for punishment.
- Sanción vs. Multa
- 'Multa' specifically means a financial penalty (a type of 'sanción').
- Sanción vs. Penalización
- 'Penalización' is often used in sports, games, or specific contexts for a disadvantage.
- Sanción vs. Consecuencia
- 'Consecuencia' is a general outcome; 'Sanción' implies an imposed penalty for breaking a rule.
La sanción fue una multa considerable.
El castigo por no hacer la tarea fue quedarse sin postre.
How Formal Is It?
Fun Fact
The original Latin root 'sancire' is related to the English word 'sanctify', both emphasizing a sense of sacredness or inviolability. Over time, the meaning evolved to focus more on the consequences of violating what was considered sacred or legally binding.
Pronunciation Guide
- Pronouncing 'c' as 'k' before 'i' (should be 'th' or 'sh').
- Misplacing stress (should be on the last syllable).
- Not clearly articulating the 'n' sound.
Difficulty Rating
The word 'sanción' is common in news and formal texts. Understanding its context, especially in international relations or legal discussions, requires a B1 level or higher.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
Gender of nouns
'Sanción' is a feminine noun. Use 'la' or 'una' and feminine adjectives: 'la sanción justa'.
Verb conjugations for 'imponer' and 'recibir'
'El gobierno impuso una sanción.' 'El conductor recibió una sanción.'
Use of prepositions with 'sanción'
'sanción por' (penalty for), 'sanción a' (penalty on).
Subjunctive mood after expressions of expectation or doubt
Espero que no se aplique una sanción severa. (I hope a severe sanction is not applied.)
Pluralization of nouns
Las sanciones económicas pueden ser controvertidas. (Economic sanctions can be controversial.)
Examples by Level
No hay sanción.
There is no penalty.
'sanción' is a feminine noun. 'No hay' means 'there is not/no'.
Es una sanción.
It is a penalty.
'una' is the indefinite feminine article.
La sanción es grande.
The penalty is big.
'La' is the definite feminine article. 'grande' means big.
Quiero evitar la sanción.
I want to avoid the penalty.
'quiero evitar' means 'I want to avoid'.
No hay sanción por eso.
There is no penalty for that.
'por eso' means 'for that'.
Una sanción pequeña.
A small penalty.
'pequeña' is the feminine adjective for 'small'.
La sanción es justa.
The penalty is fair.
'justa' is the feminine adjective for 'fair'.
Me dio una sanción.
He/She gave me a penalty.
'Me dio' means 'He/She gave me'.
El conductor recibió una sanción por exceso de velocidad.
The driver received a penalty for speeding.
'recibió' is the past tense of 'recibir' (to receive). 'exceso de velocidad' means 'speeding'.
La empresa aplicó una sanción a sus empleados desobedientes.
The company applied a penalty to its disobedient employees.
'aplicó' is the past tense of 'aplicar' (to apply). 'desobedientes' means 'disobedient'.
No habrá sanción si sigues las reglas.
There will be no penalty if you follow the rules.
'habrá' is the future tense of 'haber' (there will be). 'sigues' is the present tense of 'seguir' (to follow).
La sanción por no pagar a tiempo es un recargo.
The penalty for not paying on time is a surcharge.
'pagar a tiempo' means 'to pay on time'. 'recargo' means 'surcharge'.
Los organizadores impusieron una sanción al equipo que rompió el acuerdo.
The organizers imposed a penalty on the team that broke the agreement.
'impusieron' is the past tense of 'imponer' (to impose). 'acuerdo' means 'agreement'.
Cada infracción conlleva una sanción.
Each infraction carries a penalty.
'infracción' means 'infraction'. 'conlleva' means 'carries/entails'.
La sanción podría ser una suspensión temporal.
The penalty could be a temporary suspension.
'podría ser' means 'could be'. 'suspensión temporal' means 'temporary suspension'.
Debemos evitar cualquier sanción futura.
We must avoid any future penalty.
'Debemos' means 'We must'. 'futura' means 'future'.
La imposición de sanciones económicas busca presionar al gobierno para que cambie su política.
The imposition of economic sanctions aims to pressure the government to change its policy.
'imposición' (imposition), 'presionar' (to pressure), 'política' (policy).
El club deportivo acordó una sanción para los jugadores que no respetaran las normas.
The sports club agreed on a penalty for players who did not respect the rules.
'acordó' (agreed), 'respetaran' (subjunctive of 'respetar' - to respect), 'normas' (rules).
Los ciudadanos esperan que las autoridades apliquen la sanción correspondiente a los infractores.
Citizens expect the authorities to apply the corresponding penalty to the offenders.
'autoridades' (authorities), 'correspondiente' (corresponding), 'infractores' (offenders).
La sanción administrativa puede variar desde una advertencia hasta el cierre del establecimiento.
The administrative sanction can range from a warning to the closure of the establishment.
'administrativa' (administrative), 'advertencia' (warning), 'cierre' (closure), 'establecimiento' (establishment).
Fue una sanción desproporcionada para la falta cometida.
It was a disproportionate sanction for the offense committed.
'desproporcionada' (disproportionate), 'falta cometida' (offense committed).
El comité evaluará si la sanción impuesta fue justa y equitativa.
The committee will evaluate if the imposed sanction was just and equitable.
'comité' (committee), 'evaluará' (will evaluate), 'justa y equitativa' (just and equitable).
La falta de pago generará una sanción automática según el contrato.
The lack of payment will generate an automatic sanction according to the contract.
'falta de pago' (lack of payment), 'generará' (will generate), 'automática' (automatic), 'contrato' (contract).
Los países firmantes acordaron no levantar la sanción hasta que se cumplan las condiciones.
The signatory countries agreed not to lift the sanction until the conditions are met.
'firmantes' (signatory), 'levantar' (to lift), 'cumplan' (subjunctive of 'cumplir' - to meet/fulfill), 'condiciones' (conditions).
La comunidad internacional debate la efectividad de las sanciones como herramienta de política exterior.
The international community debates the effectiveness of sanctions as a foreign policy tool.
'efectividad' (effectiveness), 'herramienta' (tool), 'política exterior' (foreign policy).
El tribunal dictaminó una sanción ejemplar para disuadir futuras transgresiones.
The court ruled an exemplary sanction to deter future transgressions.
'tribunal' (court), 'dictaminó' (ruled), 'ejemplar' (exemplary), 'disuadir' (to deter), 'transgresiones' (transgressions).
Las sanciones impuestas al país han tenido un impacto devastador en su economía.
The sanctions imposed on the country have had a devastating impact on its economy.
'impacto devastador' (devastating impact), 'economía' (economy).
La falta de consenso impidió la aplicación de una sanción unificada.
The lack of consensus prevented the application of a unified sanction.
'consenso' (consensus), 'impidió' (prevented), 'unificada' (unified).
Se argumenta que ciertas sanciones pueden afectar negativamente a la población civil.
It is argued that certain sanctions can negatively affect the civilian population.
'argumenta' (it is argued), 'afectar negativamente' (to negatively affect), 'población civil' (civilian population).
El organismo regulador impuso una severa sanción a la corporación por violar las normativas ambientales.
The regulatory body imposed a severe sanction on the corporation for violating environmental regulations.
'organismo regulador' (regulatory body), 'corporación' (corporation), 'violar' (to violate), 'normativas ambientales' (environmental regulations).
La posibilidad de una sanción internacional motivó al gobierno a reconsiderar su postura.
The possibility of international sanction motivated the government to reconsider its stance.
'motivó' (motivated), 'reconsiderar' (to reconsider), 'postura' (stance).
Es crucial que la sanción sea proporcional al daño causado.
It is crucial that the sanction be proportional to the damage caused.
'crucial' (crucial), 'proporcional' (proportional), 'daño causado' (damage caused).
La diplomacia coercitiva, a menudo sustentada en la amenaza de sanciones, busca modificar conductas estatales sin recurrir al conflicto armado.
Coercive diplomacy, often supported by the threat of sanctions, seeks to modify state behaviors without resorting to armed conflict.
'diplomacia coercitiva' (coercive diplomacy), 'sustentada' (supported/sustained), 'modificar conductas estatales' (modify state behaviors), 'recurrir' (to resort to), 'conflicto armado' (armed conflict).
El debate se centra en si las sanciones unilaterales, sin respaldo de organismos multilaterales, son legítimas.
The debate centers on whether unilateral sanctions, without the backing of multilateral organizations, are legitimate.
'unilaterales' (unilateral), 'respaldo' (backing/support), 'organismos multilaterales' (multilateral organizations), 'legítimas' (legitimate).
La aplicación de sanciones selectivas pretende minimizar el impacto humanitario mientras se presiona a los responsables.
The application of selective sanctions aims to minimize the humanitarian impact while pressuring those responsible.
'selectivas' (selective), 'minimizar' (to minimize), 'impacto humanitario' (humanitarian impact), 'responsables' (those responsible).
La rigidez en la aplicación de la sanción podría generar resentimiento y desestabilización.
Rigidity in the application of the sanction could generate resentment and destabilization.
'rigidez' (rigidity), 'generar' (to generate), 'resentimiento' (resentment), 'desestabilización' (destabilization).
El incumplimiento reiterado de las normativas puede acarrear una sanción pecuniaria considerable.
Repeated non-compliance with regulations can lead to a considerable pecuniary sanction.
'incumplimiento reiterado' (repeated non-compliance), 'acarrear' (to lead to/entail), 'pecuniaria' (pecuniary/monetary).
La efectividad de una sanción depende en gran medida de la voluntad política para hacerla cumplir.
The effectiveness of a sanction depends largely on the political will to enforce it.
'depende en gran medida' (depends largely), 'voluntad política' (political will), 'hacerla cumplir' (to enforce it).
Se debate si la sanción debería ser puramente punitiva o también rehabilitadora.
It is debated whether the sanction should be purely punitive or also rehabilitative.
'puramente punitiva' (purely punitive), 'rehabilitadora' (rehabilitative).
La retirada de la sanción estuvo condicionada a la verificación de reformas sustanciales.
The lifting of the sanction was conditioned on the verification of substantial reforms.
'retirada' (lifting/withdrawal), 'condicionada' (conditioned), 'verificación' (verification), 'reformas sustanciales' (substantial reforms).
La naturaleza intrínseca de las sanciones económicas radica en su capacidad para estrangular el flujo financiero y comercial de un Estado.
The intrinsic nature of economic sanctions lies in their capacity to strangle a state's financial and commercial flow.
'naturaleza intrínseca' (intrinsic nature), 'radica en' (lies in), 'estrangula' (strangle), 'flujo financiero y comercial' (financial and commercial flow).
El análisis de la jurisprudencia revela una tendencia hacia la humanización de las sanciones, buscando un equilibrio entre la disuasión y la resocialización.
The analysis of jurisprudence reveals a tendency towards the humanization of sanctions, seeking a balance between deterrence and resocialization.
'jurisprudencia' (jurisprudence), 'tendencia' (tendency), 'humanización' (humanization), 'disuasión' (deterrence), 'resocialización' (resocialization).
La eficacia de las sanciones como instrumento de política exterior es objeto de un debate académico perpetuo, con argumentos que oscilan entre su poder transformador y su potencial para exacerbar crisis humanitarias.
The efficacy of sanctions as an instrument of foreign policy is the subject of perpetual academic debate, with arguments oscillating between their transformative power and their potential to exacerbate humanitarian crises.
'eficacia' (efficacy), 'objeto de un debate académico perpetuo' (subject of perpetual academic debate), 'oscilan' (oscillate), 'poder transformador' (transformative power), 'exacerbar crisis humanitarias' (exacerbate humanitarian crises).
La aplicación retroactiva de una sanción es, por regla general, contraria a los principios del derecho penal.
The retroactive application of a sanction is, as a general rule, contrary to the principles of criminal law.
'retroactiva' (retroactive), 'por regla general' (as a general rule), 'contraria a' (contrary to), 'principios del derecho penal' (principles of criminal law).
El entramado legal que rodea las sanciones internacionales es complejo, requiriendo una interpretación matizada de tratados y resoluciones.
The legal framework surrounding international sanctions is complex, requiring a nuanced interpretation of treaties and resolutions.
'entramado legal' (legal framework), 'rodea' (surrounds), 'requiriendo' (requiring), 'interpretación matizada' (nuanced interpretation), 'tratados y resoluciones' (treaties and resolutions).
La severidad de la sanción debe ponderarse cuidadosamente frente a la gravedad de la falta y las circunstancias atenuantes.
The severity of the sanction must be carefully weighed against the gravity of the offense and any mitigating circumstances.
'severidad' (severity), 'ponderarse cuidadosamente' (to be carefully weighed), 'gravedad de la falta' (gravity of the offense), 'circunstancias atenuantes' (mitigating circumstances).
El arbitraje internacional puede ser invocado para dirimir disputas relativas a la imposición o el levantamiento de sanciones.
International arbitration can be invoked to settle disputes concerning the imposition or lifting of sanctions.
'arbitraje internacional' (international arbitration), 'invocado' (invoked), 'dirimir disputas' (to settle disputes), 'relativas a' (concerning).
La persistencia de la sanción, incluso después de que el objetivo original haya sido alcanzado, plantea serias cuestiones éticas.
The persistence of the sanction, even after the original objective has been achieved, raises serious ethical questions.
'persistencia' (persistence), 'plantea serias cuestiones éticas' (raises serious ethical questions).
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
— Without penalty. Used to indicate that no punishment will be applied.
Si cumples la tarea, no habrá sanción.
— To apply a penalty. This is a common way to talk about enforcing rules.
Debemos aplicar sanción a quienes no respeten el horario.
— To impose a penalty. Similar to 'aplicar sanción' but often implies a more official or authoritative decision.
El comité decidió imponer sanción a los miembros que faltaron.
— Economic sanction. Refers to penalties involving money or trade, often in international relations.
Las sanciones económicas pueden ser muy efectivas.
— Disciplinary sanction. A penalty for breaking rules within an organization like a school or company.
La sanción disciplinaria incluyó una suspensión.
— To be subject to a penalty. Indicates that someone or something is liable to be punished.
Si no pagas, serás objeto de sanción.
— Measures and sanctions. Often used together to describe actions taken and the penalties associated with them.
Se discutieron medidas y sanciones para el control de la pandemia.
— To accept or comply with the sanction. To abide by the penalty imposed.
El acusado decidió acatar la sanción impuesta por el juez.
— To lift a sanction. To remove a penalty or restriction, often when conditions are met.
Se espera que levanten la sanción una vez que se cumplan los acuerdos.
— Threat of sanction. The warning that a penalty will be imposed if rules are broken.
La amenaza de sanción sirvió como advertencia.
Often Confused With
The English word 'sanction' can mean both a penalty and an approval or permission. The Spanish 'sanción' almost exclusively means penalty or punishment.
These words sound somewhat similar but have entirely different meanings. 'Santuario' means 'sanctuary' or 'shrine'.
While related, the verb 'sancionar' means 'to sanction' (i.e., to impose a penalty or to approve/ratify). The noun 'sanción' is the penalty itself.
Easily Confused
Both refer to negative consequences for wrongdoing.
'Sanción' is typically a formal penalty imposed by an authority for breaking a specific rule or law. 'Castigo' is a more general term for punishment, which can be less formal or more broadly applied.
La <strong>sanción</strong> por no pagar impuestos es una multa. El <strong>castigo</strong> por pelear en el patio fue una llamada a los padres.
'Multa' is a specific type of 'sanción'.
'Multa' specifically refers to a financial penalty (a fine). 'Sanción' is a broader term that can include fines, suspensions, restrictions, or other forms of punishment.
Recibió una <strong>sanción</strong> que consistía en una <strong>multa</strong> de 200 euros.
Both can refer to legal penalties.
'Pena' can mean 'penalty' in a legal context (e.g., 'pena de prisión' - prison sentence), but it also has the primary meaning of 'sorrow' or 'grief'. 'Sanción' specifically refers to the punishment or penalty for breaking a rule or law, without the connotation of sadness.
La <strong>pena</strong> máxima por ese delito es de cadena perpetua. El juez impuso una <strong>sanción</strong> económica.
Both involve penalties for rule-breaking.
'Penalización' is often used in specific contexts like sports, games, or sometimes business, referring to a disadvantage or penalty incurred. 'Sanción' is a more general and formal term for a penalty imposed by law or authority.
Hubo una <strong>penalización</strong> de tiempo en el partido. La <strong>sanción</strong> oficial fue una multa.
Both describe outcomes of actions.
'Consecuencia' is a very broad term for any outcome, positive or negative. 'Sanción' is specifically a negative outcome imposed as a punishment for breaking a rule or law.
Una <strong>consecuencia</strong> de la lluvia fue que el partido se canceló. La <strong>sanción</strong> por no asistir al evento fue la pérdida de tu asiento.
Sentence Patterns
No hay [sanción].
No hay sanción por eso.
El/La [noun] recibió una [sanción] por [reason].
El conductor recibió una sanción por exceso de velocidad.
La [sanción] [verb] [adjective].
La sanción fue desproporcionada.
Se [verb] una [sanción] a [someone/something].
Se aplicó una sanción al equipo infractor.
La [sanción] [verb] a [someone/something] por [reason].
La sanción impuesta al país tuvo un impacto devastador.
Se debate si las [sanciones] son [adjective].
Se debate si las sanciones son efectivas.
La [sanción] [verb] en [noun] [adjective] [noun].
La sanción pecuniaria se tradujo en una multa considerable.
La naturaleza intrínseca de las [sanciones] [verb] en su capacidad para [verb phrase].
La naturaleza intrínseca de las sanciones radica en su capacidad para estrangular la economía.
Word Family
Nouns
Verbs
Adjectives
Related
How to Use It
High in news, legal contexts, and discussions about rules. Medium in general conversation.
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Using 'un sanción' instead of 'una sanción'.
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una sanción
The word 'sanción' is feminine in Spanish, so it requires feminine articles ('la', 'una') and adjectives.
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Confusing the Spanish 'sanción' with the English 'sanction' (meaning approval).
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In Spanish, 'sanción' almost always means penalty or punishment.
The English word 'sanction' has a dual meaning. The Spanish word 'sanción' primarily refers to a penalty, fine, or punishment for breaking a rule or law.
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Pronouncing 'sanción' with a 'k' sound for 'c'.
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Pronounce 'c' before 'i' as 'th' (Spain) or 's' (Latin America).
The letter 'c' before 'i' or 'e' in Spanish typically has a 'th' sound (ceceo) or an 's' sound (seseo), not a 'k' sound.
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Using 'sanción' for very minor, informal reprimands.
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Use 'reprimenda', 'advertencia', or 'castigo' for less formal consequences.
'Sanción' implies a more official or formal penalty. For everyday slights or minor scoldings, other words might be more appropriate.
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Not pluralizing correctly when referring to multiple penalties.
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sanciones
The plural form of 'sanción' is 'sanciones'. Use this when referring to more than one penalty or a set of measures.
Tips
Feminine Noun
Remember that 'sanción' is a feminine noun. You will always use feminine articles ('la', 'una') and adjectives ('severa', 'justa') with it.
The 'c' Sound
Be mindful of the pronunciation of 'c' before 'i'. In Spain, it's a 'th' sound; in Latin America, it's an 's' sound. Avoid pronouncing it like 'k'.
English vs. Spanish 'Sanction'
While 'sanción' and 'sanction' are cognates, the Spanish word almost exclusively means a penalty or punishment. The English word can also mean approval, so be careful not to confuse the meanings.
Related Terms
Learn related terms like 'imponer una sanción' (to impose a sanction), 'recibir una sanción' (to receive a sanction), and 'sanciones económicas' (economic sanctions) to build a richer understanding.
Memory Hook
Connect 'sanción' to the idea of 'sanction' (English) but focus on the penalty aspect. Imagine a stern judge or a government official imposing a consequence.
Sentence Building
Try creating your own sentences using 'sanción' in different contexts. For example, write a sentence about a school rule and its corresponding sanction.
Global Context
Understand that 'sanción' is a key term in international politics and law. Following news in Spanish about global events will expose you to its frequent use.
Choosing the Right Word
While 'sanción' is formal, consider 'castigo' for general punishment, 'multa' for fines, and 'penalización' for sports/games to be more precise.
Verb Association
Learn the verb 'sancionar' (to sanction/penalize). Understanding the verb form can help solidify the meaning of the noun 'sanción'.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Imagine a 'SANta' giving a 'Ción' (action) of a penalty, like a lump of coal for being naughty. Or, think of 'SANction' as a 'SANguine' (bloody) consequence for breaking rules.
Visual Association
Picture a judge's gavel striking down firmly, accompanied by a 'STOP' sign, symbolizing the imposition of a penalty. Or, imagine a country's flag being wrapped in chains, representing international sanctions.
Word Web
Challenge
Try to describe a situation where someone broke a rule and received a 'sanción', using the word at least three times in your description.
Word Origin
The word 'sanción' comes from the Latin word 'sactio', which itself derives from 'sancire', meaning 'to make sacred, to consecrate, to ratify'. In Roman law, 'sactio' referred to a solemn guarantee or a penalty for violating a sacred law.
Original meaning: To make sacred, to ratify, a solemn guarantee or penalty.
Indo-European > Italic > Latin > Romance > SpanishCultural Context
When discussing 'sanciones', especially in international political contexts, be aware of the potential human impact and the ethical considerations involved in their application.
In English, 'sanction' can mean both a penalty and an official approval or permission. In Spanish, 'sanción' almost always refers to the penalty or punishment aspect.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Legal proceedings
- imponer una sanción penal
- la sanción correspondiente
- sanción administrativa
- evitar la sanción
International relations
- sanciones económicas
- levantar las sanciones
- imponer sanciones a un país
- sanciones diplomáticas
Organizational rules (schools, companies)
- sanción disciplinaria
- aplicar una sanción
- recibir una sanción
- medida disciplinaria
Everyday rule-following
- no habrá sanción
- la sanción por...
- una sanción pequeña
Sports and games
- penalización
- sanción por falta
- reducir la sanción
Conversation Starters
"¿Has oído hablar de las sanciones que se han impuesto recientemente a ese país?"
"¿Qué tipo de sanción crees que sería más efectiva para disuadir a la gente de tirar basura en la calle?"
"En tu opinión, ¿cuándo es justa una sanción y cuándo es desproporcionada?"
"¿Recuerdas alguna vez haber recibido una sanción por romper una regla importante?"
"¿Cómo crees que las sanciones afectan a la gente común en un país?"
Journal Prompts
Describe una situación hipotética en la que una organización impone una sanción a uno de sus miembros. ¿Cuál es la regla rota y cuál es la sanción?
Reflexiona sobre la diferencia entre 'sanción' y 'castigo'. ¿En qué situaciones usarías cada palabra?
Investiga sobre sanciones económicas impuestas a algún país. ¿Cuáles fueron los objetivos y los resultados?
Imagina que eres un juez. ¿Qué factores considerarías al decidir la severidad de una sanción para un delito específico?
Escribe sobre la importancia de las reglas y las sanciones en la sociedad. ¿Qué pasaría si no hubiera ninguna sanción?
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questions'Sanción' se refiere generalmente a una penalidad formal impuesta por una autoridad (gobierno, organización, tribunal) por violar una regla o ley específica. Por ejemplo, una multa por exceso de velocidad es una sanción. 'Castigo' es un término más general para cualquier tipo de penalidad o sufrimiento infligido como resultado de una mala acción, y puede ser menos formal. Por ejemplo, un padre que castiga a su hijo por no hacer la tarea está imponiendo un castigo. Si bien una sanción es un tipo de castigo, no todo castigo es una sanción formal.
Se usa 'sanciones' en plural cuando se refiere a múltiples penalidades o a un conjunto de medidas punitivas. Es muy común en contextos internacionales, como 'las sanciones económicas impuestas a un país', donde se pueden incluir varias restricciones comerciales, financieras o diplomáticas.
Sí, 'sanción' es generalmente una palabra formal. Se utiliza comúnmente en textos legales, noticias, discusiones políticas y en el ámbito de las organizaciones. Aunque puede usarse en conversaciones cotidianas para referirse a reglas menores, su connotación principal es la de una penalidad oficial o reglamentaria.
Una 'sanción económica' es una medida punitiva que afecta la economía de un individuo, empresa o país. Puede incluir prohibiciones de comercio, congelación de activos, restricciones financieras o limitaciones en inversiones. Estas sanciones se utilizan a menudo en política internacional para presionar a un país a cambiar su comportamiento.
Sí, absolutamente. Una multa de tráfico es un tipo de 'sanción' (una penalidad impuesta por violar una ley de tráfico). Podrías decir: 'Recibí una sanción por aparcar en zona prohibida', o más específicamente, 'Recibí una multa por aparcar en zona prohibida'.
Una 'sanción disciplinaria' es una penalidad impuesta dentro de una organización (como una escuela, una empresa, un club) a un miembro que ha infringido las reglas internas o el código de conducta. Puede variar desde una advertencia verbal hasta la suspensión o expulsión.
La diferencia principal está en la pronunciación de la 'c' antes de 'i' o 'e'. En la mayor parte de España, se pronuncia como el sonido 'th' en inglés ('thin'). En América Latina y algunas partes de España, se pronuncia como una 's'. Por lo tanto, 'sanción' suena como 'san-THIÓN' en España y como 'san-SIÓN' en América Latina.
El término inglés 'sanction' puede tener dos significados opuestos: una penalidad por violar una regla (similar al español 'sanción') o una aprobación oficial o permiso. El español 'sanción' casi siempre se refiere al primer significado: la penalidad o castigo.
El verbo 'sancionar' tiene dos usos principales: 1) Imponer una sanción o castigo (similar a 'penalizar'). Ejemplo: 'El comité sancionó al jugador.' 2) Aprobar o ratificar una ley o norma (similar a 'aprobar' o 'legislar'). Ejemplo: 'El parlamento sancionó la nueva ley.' El contexto aclara cuál significado se está usando.
Palabras similares incluyen 'castigo' (punishment), 'multa' (fine), 'pena' (penalty/sorrow), 'penalización' (penalty, often in sports/games), y 'consecuencia' (consequence). La elección depende del contexto y la formalidad.
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Summary
A 'sanción' is a formal penalty or punishment imposed for violating a rule, law, or agreement, serving to enforce compliance and deter further infractions.
- A penalty for breaking rules or laws.
- Used in legal, political, and organizational contexts.
- Can be a fine, suspension, or other restrictive measure.
- Ensures compliance and deters bad behavior.
Context is Key
Always pay attention to the context when you encounter 'sanción'. It's most often used in formal settings like legal discussions, news reports about international affairs, or when talking about rules in schools or companies.
Feminine Noun
Remember that 'sanción' is a feminine noun. You will always use feminine articles ('la', 'una') and adjectives ('severa', 'justa') with it.
The 'c' Sound
Be mindful of the pronunciation of 'c' before 'i'. In Spain, it's a 'th' sound; in Latin America, it's an 's' sound. Avoid pronouncing it like 'k'.
English vs. Spanish 'Sanction'
While 'sanción' and 'sanction' are cognates, the Spanish word almost exclusively means a penalty or punishment. The English word can also mean approval, so be careful not to confuse the meanings.
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