Definition

The quality or state of being able to be punished for an action or behavior.

Example

The punishability of certain offenses varies by jurisdiction.

Conversation

Have you ever thought about the punishability of minor offenses?

Yeah, it seems unfair sometimes for small mistakes to have serious consequences.

Right? It's like we need to balance the punishability with understanding people's situations.

Exactly! A little empathy could go a long way.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Punishability → It is formed from "punish" (from Old French *punir*, meaning to inflict a penalty) and "-ability" (meaning the quality of being able to). The word "punishability" refers to the quality or state of being subject to punishment.

Memory Tip

Think of the ability to be penalized — 'punish' means to inflict a penalty, and '-ability' indicates the quality of being able. This helps you remember that punishability is about the quality of being able to be punished.

Visually Confused Words