sanción
nounCEFR B2
What does “sanción” mean in English?
penalty, sanction — a punishment imposed for breaking a rule or law
penalty, sanction — a punishment imposed for breaking a rule or law (imponer sanciones; sanción económica)
Example sentences
Las sanciones económicas impuestas por la UE han tenido un impacto moderado en la economía del país.
The economic sanctions imposed by the EU have had a moderate impact on the country's economy.
El árbitro impuso una sanción de tres partidos al jugador por su actitud violenta en el campo.
The referee imposed a three-match ban on the player for his violent conduct on the pitch.
La empresa fue sancionada por vulnerar la normativa medioambiental en sus instalaciones industriales.
The company was sanctioned for violating environmental regulations at its industrial facilities.
How to use it
La sanción (noun, feminine) means 'sanction' or 'penalty' — a punishment imposed for breaking a rule or law. Key collocations: imponer/levantar sanciones; sanción económica/disciplinaria/deportiva; sanciones internacionales; régimen de sanciones. Distinguish from multa (fine — a monetary penalty) and pena (sentence — a criminal punishment). Also note: sancionar = to sanction (to officially approve) or to penalise — both meanings exist.
Common mistake
Imponer una sanción (not *dar una sanción). Sanciones internacionales = international sanctions (geopolitical). Multa is specifically a financial fine; sanción is broader (suspension, ban, penalty). Sancionar also means 'to sanction/approve' (officially ratify) — context disambiguates. 'To lift sanctions' = levantar sanciones.