punishable

Everyday

1. That can be punished by law or by rules: «Stealing is a punishable offence.» tree →
2. (law) That carries a particular punishment: «punishable by a fine». tree →

In the lessons

In citizenship, law and safety lessons it tells you something is against the rules and has a penalty. On signs: «Dropping litter is punishable by a fine.» Phrases: «punishable by», «a punishable offence», «punishable by law».

Examples

• Dropping litter here is punishable by a £100 fine. tree →
• Cheating in the exam is punishable by disqualification. tree →
• Bullying is punishable under school rules. tree →
• In some countries, chewing gum on the train is punishable. tree →
• Pulling the emergency cord without reason is punishable by law. tree →
• Hacking into someone's account is a punishable crime. tree →

Note

Usually followed by «by»: punishable by a fine. Related: punish, punishment. «A punishable offence» means a crime or rule-break that can bring a penalty; it does not mean the punishment will always happen.