Punishment is a concept as old as time, but the slang surrounding it is constantly evolving. From “getting grounded” to “doing time,” we’ve got you covered with a list of the most popular and intriguing slang for punishment. Join us as we explore the colorful language used to describe consequences and discipline in today’s world.
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1. Curfew
A curfew is a specific time set by parents or authorities when someone, usually a child or teenager, must be home or indoors. It is a form of punishment to restrict their freedom and ensure their safety.
- For example, a parent might say, “Your curfew is 10 PM. Make sure you’re home by then.”
- A teenager might complain, “I hate having a curfew. It feels so restrictive.”
- In a discussion about parenting, someone might say, “Setting a curfew helps teach responsibility and discipline.”
2. Loss of privileges
This refers to the act of taking away certain rights or privileges as a form of punishment. It can include restrictions on activities, access to certain items, or privileges such as going out with friends.
- For instance, a parent might say, “You’re grounded and have a loss of privileges for a week. No TV, no phone, and no going out.”
- A teacher might enforce a loss of privileges by saying, “Since you didn’t complete your homework, you’ll have a loss of recess time.”
- In a discussion about discipline, someone might suggest, “Loss of privileges can be an effective way to teach consequences and encourage better behavior.”
3. Scolded
To scold someone means to reprimand or chastise them for their behavior. It involves expressing disapproval or disappointment and can be a verbal form of punishment.
- For example, a parent might scold their child by saying, “You know better than to talk back like that.”
- A teacher might scold a student by saying, “I expect better behavior from you in my class.”
- In a conversation about discipline methods, someone might mention, “Scolding can be effective for correcting immediate behavior, but it’s important to follow up with guidance and support.”
4. Sent to bed early
Being sent to bed early is a punishment where someone is required to go to bed before their usual bedtime. It restricts their leisure or free time and can serve as a consequence for misbehavior.
- For instance, a parent might say, “Since you didn’t finish your homework, you’re being sent to bed early.”
- A child might complain, “It’s not fair! I don’t want to go to bed early.”
- In a discussion about parenting strategies, someone might suggest, “Sending a child to bed early can help them understand the importance of completing their responsibilities.”
5. No screen time
No screen time refers to a punishment where someone is not allowed to use electronic devices such as smartphones, tablets, or computers. It is a form of discipline to limit their access to technology and encourage alternative activities.
- For example, a parent might say, “You’re grounded. No screen time for a week.”
- A teenager might protest, “But all my friends are online! It’s not fair.”
- In a conversation about balancing technology use, someone might mention, “No screen time can be a helpful way to encourage outdoor activities and face-to-face interactions.”
6. Extra chores
Extra chores are additional tasks assigned to someone as a form of punishment. These tasks are typically unrelated to regular household duties and are given as a way to teach responsibility or as a consequence for misbehavior.
- For example, a parent might say, “Since you didn’t finish your homework, you’ll have to do some extra chores.”
- A teacher might assign extra chores to a student who misbehaved in class, saying, “You will clean the whiteboard as an extra chore.”
- In a conversation about discipline, someone might mention, “Extra chores can be an effective way to teach children the importance of completing their responsibilities.”
7. Writing lines
Writing lines is a punishment where a person is required to repeatedly write a sentence or phrase as a consequence for their actions. This form of punishment is often used in educational settings or as a disciplinary measure to reinforce a lesson or discourage certain behaviors.
- For instance, a teacher might ask a student to write, “I will not talk in class” 100 times as a punishment for disrupting the lesson.
- In a discussion about school discipline, a person might say, “Writing lines used to be a common punishment for misbehaving students.”
- A parent might use writing lines as a consequence at home, saying, “If you don’t finish your homework, you’ll have to write ‘I will complete my assignments’ 50 times.”
8. Silent treatment
The silent treatment is a form of punishment where one person ignores or refuses to communicate with another as a means of expressing their disapproval or anger. This can be a passive-aggressive way of inflicting emotional pain or asserting control over a situation.
- For example, in a relationship argument, one partner might give the other the silent treatment as a way of expressing their hurt feelings.
- In a conversation about conflict resolution, someone might mention, “Using the silent treatment can be detrimental to relationships and should be avoided.”
- A person discussing parenting might say, “Giving a child the silent treatment can be emotionally damaging and ineffective as a disciplinary tactic.”
9. Cold shoulder
To give someone the cold shoulder means to ignore or show indifference towards them as a form of punishment or displeasure. This can involve avoiding eye contact, refusing to engage in conversation, or excluding the person from social interactions.
- For instance, if someone is upset with a friend, they might give them the cold shoulder by not responding to their messages or invitations.
- In a discussion about social dynamics, someone might say, “Giving someone the cold shoulder is a passive way of expressing disapproval.”
- A person might mention, “I received the cold shoulder from my coworkers after a disagreement, and it made me feel isolated.”
10. Shunned
To be shunned means to be deliberately excluded or avoided by a group as a punishment or social consequence. This can be a form of ostracism where someone is socially rejected or ignored due to their actions or beliefs.
- For example, if someone breaks a social norm, they might be shunned by their community as a way of enforcing conformity.
- In a conversation about social dynamics, someone might say, “Being shunned can have severe psychological effects on an individual.”
- A person discussing the consequences of certain behaviors might mention, “In some cultures, being shunned can be a severe punishment for breaking societal rules.”
11. Banished
To be banished means to be forcibly sent away or expelled from a place or community as a form of punishment. It often involves being permanently excluded from a group or society.
- For example, “The king banished the traitor from the kingdom.”
- In a historical context, “During ancient times, criminals were often banished from their communities.”
- A person might say, “If you break the rules, you’ll be banished from this club.”
12. Exiled
To be exiled means to be forced to leave one’s home or country as a punishment. It often involves being sent away to a distant or unfamiliar place, usually for a prolonged period.
- For instance, “The political dissident was exiled to a remote island.”
- In a historical context, “Many writers and artists were exiled for their controversial works.”
- A person might say, “If you betray us, you’ll be exiled from our community forever.”
13. Blacklisted
To be blacklisted means to be banned or excluded from a particular group or activity as a form of punishment. It often involves being denied opportunities or privileges due to one’s actions or behavior.
- For example, “The actor was blacklisted from Hollywood after his scandalous behavior.”
- In a professional context, “If you violate company policies, you may be blacklisted from future employment.”
- A person might say, “Don’t mess with him, or you’ll end up blacklisted from all the best parties.”
14. Ostracized
To be ostracized means to be socially excluded or rejected by a group or community as a means of punishment. It often involves being ignored, shunned, or isolated by others.
- For instance, “The student was ostracized by their classmates for spreading rumors.”
- In a school setting, “Bullying can lead to a student being ostracized by their peers.”
- A person might say, “If you betray your friends, you’ll end up ostracized and alone.”
15. Shamed
To be shamed means to be publicly humiliated or embarrassed as a form of punishment. It often involves exposing one’s wrongdoing or flaws to others, leading to feelings of guilt or disgrace.
- For example, “The politician was shamed for his involvement in a corruption scandal.”
- In a social context, “Body shaming is a harmful practice that can deeply affect a person’s self-esteem.”
- A person might say, “If you cheat on the test, you’ll be shamed in front of the whole class.”
16. Public apology
This refers to a formal statement or act where a person acknowledges their wrongdoing and expresses remorse publicly. A public apology is often made to the individuals or groups affected by the person’s actions.
- For instance, a celebrity might issue a public apology for making offensive remarks.
- In a political scandal, a public figure might give a public apology to regain public trust.
- A company might issue a public apology for a product defect that caused harm to consumers.
17. Fined
To be fined means to be required to pay a sum of money as a penalty for breaking a rule or law. It is a form of punishment that involves a monetary penalty.
- For example, if you are caught speeding, you might be fined $100.
- In a court case, the judge might fine a company for violating safety regulations.
- A person might say, “I got fined for parking in a no-parking zone.”
18. Community service
Community service is a form of punishment where an individual is required to perform unpaid work for the benefit of the community. It is often used as an alternative to incarceration for minor offenses.
- For instance, someone convicted of vandalism might be sentenced to community service.
- In a high-profile case, a celebrity might be ordered to do community service as part of their punishment.
- A judge might sentence a person to 100 hours of community service for a non-violent offense.
19. Probation
Probation is a period of supervision and monitoring that follows a criminal conviction. It involves certain restrictions and conditions that the individual must abide by, such as regular check-ins with a probation officer.
- For example, someone convicted of theft might be placed on probation for two years.
- In a court hearing, a judge might sentence a person to probation instead of jail time.
- A person might say, “I’m on probation, so I have to be careful not to violate any of the conditions.”
20. Slap on the wrist
To receive a slap on the wrist means to be given a mild or lenient punishment for an offense. It implies that the punishment is not significant or severe.
- For instance, a student who cheats on a test might only receive a slap on the wrist from the teacher.
- In a workplace misconduct case, an employee might receive a slap on the wrist instead of being fired.
- A person might say, “He got off with just a slap on the wrist for stealing.”
21. Scolding
This refers to a form of punishment where someone is criticized or rebuked verbally for their actions or behavior. It often involves expressing disapproval or disappointment.
- For instance, a parent might scold their child for breaking a rule by saying, “I told you not to touch that!”
- In a workplace setting, a boss might scold an employee for making a mistake by saying, “You need to be more careful in the future.”
- A teacher might scold a student for not completing their homework by saying, “You need to take your assignments more seriously.”
22. Consequences
Consequences refer to the outcomes or results that occur as a result of someone’s actions or decisions. It often implies negative outcomes or punishments.
- For example, if someone cheats on a test, the consequence might be failing the exam.
- A person who drives recklessly might face the consequence of getting a ticket or causing an accident.
- A student who procrastinates might face the consequence of receiving a lower grade on their assignment.
23. Reprimand
A reprimand is a formal and official form of punishment or criticism. It typically comes from a person in authority, such as a boss, teacher, or parent.
- For instance, a manager might reprimand an employee for consistently coming late to work by saying, “Your punctuality is unacceptable.”
- A teacher might reprimand a student for disruptive behavior in class by saying, “You need to respect the rules and your classmates.”
- A parent might reprimand their child for lying by saying, “Honesty is important, and lying is not tolerated in this house.”
24. Sanction
Sanction refers to an official punishment or penalty imposed by an authority or governing body. It is often used in legal or formal contexts.
- For example, a judge might sanction a defendant by imposing a fine or imprisonment for their crime.
- A sports organization might sanction a player for violating the rules by suspending them from games.
- A school might sanction a student for cheating on an exam by giving them a failing grade.
25. Repercussions
Repercussions are the unintended negative effects or consequences that occur as a result of an action or decision. It often implies a chain reaction of negative outcomes.
- For instance, if a country imposes heavy tariffs on imported goods, the repercussions might be retaliatory tariffs from other countries and a decrease in international trade.
- A person who spreads rumors about someone might face the repercussions of damaged relationships and a loss of trust.
- A company that ignores customer complaints might face the repercussions of a damaged reputation and loss of business.
26. Penalty
– For example, in a soccer match, a player might receive a penalty for committing a foul.
- In a legal context, a judge might impose a penalty of community service for a minor offense.
- A parent might give their child a penalty of no TV for a week as punishment for misbehaving.
27. Reproach
– For instance, a teacher might reproach a student for not completing their homework.
- A boss might reproach an employee for being late to work.
- A friend might reproach another friend for canceling plans at the last minute.
28. Chastise
– For example, a parent might chastise their child for lying.
- A coach might chastise a player for making a critical mistake in a game.
- A teacher might chastise a student for disruptive behavior in the classroom.
29. Censure
– For instance, a government may censure a politician for unethical conduct.
- A professional organization may censure a member for violating ethical guidelines.
- A board of directors may censure a CEO for poor performance.
30. Rebuke
– For example, a judge might rebuke a lawyer for inappropriate behavior in the courtroom.
- A supervisor might rebuke an employee for repeatedly failing to meet deadlines.
- A parent might rebuke their child for disrespectful behavior.
31. Castigate
To castigate means to criticize or reprimand someone severely. It implies a harsh and strong form of punishment or chastisement.
- For example, a teacher might castigate a student for not completing their homework by saying, “You should be ashamed of yourself for not doing your work.”
- In a disciplinary setting, a supervisor might castigate an employee for consistently coming in late, saying, “Your lack of punctuality is unacceptable and will not be tolerated.”
- A parent might castigate their child for misbehaving by saying, “You know better than to act like that. I expect better from you.”
32. Disciplinary action
Disciplinary action refers to any measures taken to correct or punish someone for their behavior. It can range from mild to severe, depending on the situation.
- For instance, a school might take disciplinary action against a student who is caught cheating on a test, such as giving them a failing grade or suspending them.
- In a workplace, disciplinary action might involve a written warning, suspension, or even termination for repeated misconduct.
- A military organization might impose disciplinary action for violations of the code of conduct, such as loss of rank or confinement.
33. Correction
Correction refers to the act of punishing or disciplining someone in order to correct their behavior or make them better. It is often used in a rehabilitative sense, implying that the punishment is intended to help the person improve.
- For example, a judge might sentence a convicted criminal to correctional therapy or counseling to address the underlying issues that led to their criminal behavior.
- In a school setting, a teacher might use correction as a means of teaching a student the correct way to behave or complete a task.
- A parent might correct their child’s behavior by implementing consequences and teaching them better alternatives.
34. Penalize
To penalize means to impose a penalty or punishment on someone for their actions. It implies a formal or official punishment for a violation or wrongdoing.
- For instance, a referee might penalize a player in a sports game by issuing a yellow card for a minor infraction or a red card for a more serious offense.
- In a legal context, a judge might penalize a defendant by imposing fines, community service, or even imprisonment.
- A school might penalize a student for breaking the rules by giving them detention or assigning extra assignments.
35. Disciplinary measures
Disciplinary measures refer to any actions or steps taken to enforce discipline or punish someone for their behavior. It encompasses a range of punitive actions, from mild to severe.
- For example, a teacher might implement disciplinary measures in the classroom, such as time-outs, loss of privileges, or parent-teacher conferences.
- In a corporate setting, disciplinary measures might include verbal warnings, written reprimands, or even termination for repeated misconduct.
- A military organization might use disciplinary measures to maintain order and obedience, such as extra duties, loss of leave privileges, or demotion.
36. Retribution
Retribution refers to the act of punishing someone as a form of revenge or payback for their actions. It is often seen as a form of justice or retribution for a wrongdoing.
- For example, a person might say, “He got his retribution when he was sentenced to prison for his crimes.”
- In a discussion about justice, someone might argue, “Retribution is an important aspect of a fair legal system.”
- A parent might use the term when disciplining a child, saying, “You will face retribution for breaking the rules.”
37. Punitive action
Punitive action refers to measures taken to punish or discipline someone for their actions. It is often used in a formal or official context, such as within a legal or organizational setting.
- For instance, a company might take punitive action against an employee who violates company policies.
- In a discussion about school discipline, someone might say, “Punitive action should be used as a last resort, after other interventions have been tried.”
- A teacher might warn a student, “Continued disruptive behavior will result in punitive action.”
38. Time out
Time out is a form of punishment commonly used with children, where they are temporarily isolated from an activity or group as a consequence for misbehavior. It is often used as a way to give the child a chance to calm down and reflect on their actions.
- For example, a parent might say, “You need a time out for hitting your sister.”
- In a discussion about discipline strategies, someone might suggest, “Time outs can be an effective way to teach children self-control.”
- A teacher might use time outs in the classroom, saying, “If you can’t follow the rules, you’ll have a time out.”
39. Recess duty
Recess duty refers to the responsibility of supervising students during their break time or recess. It is often assigned to teachers or other staff members to ensure the safety and well-being of the students.
- For instance, a teacher might say, “I have recess duty today, so I’ll be outside with the students.”
- In a discussion about school routines, someone might mention, “Teachers take turns on recess duty to give each other a break.”
- A parent might volunteer for recess duty, saying, “I enjoy spending time with the kids during their break.”
40. Cleaning duty
Cleaning duty refers to the responsibility of cleaning or maintaining a specific area or space as a form of punishment or consequence. It is often assigned to individuals as a way to teach them responsibility or as a consequence for their actions.
- For example, a teacher might assign cleaning duty to a student who made a mess in the classroom.
- In a discussion about discipline in the workplace, someone might mention, “Cleaning duty can be an effective way to address minor infractions.”
- A supervisor might say, “If you’re late again, you’ll have cleaning duty as a consequence.”
41. Spanking
A form of physical punishment where a person is struck on the buttocks. Spanking is often used as a disciplinary measure for children, but can also be used in certain BDSM contexts.
- For example, a parent might say, “If you don’t behave, you’ll get a spanking.”
- In a joking manner, someone might say, “I need a spanking for eating that whole pizza.”
- A BDSM practitioner might say, “I enjoy giving and receiving spankings during play sessions.”
42. Confiscation
The act of taking away someone’s property as a form of punishment or enforcement of the law. Confiscation can occur in various contexts, such as during a legal proceeding or as a consequence for wrongdoing.
- For instance, a police officer might confiscate illegal drugs during a raid.
- In a school setting, a teacher might confiscate a student’s phone for using it during class.
- A government might confiscate land from individuals for public use or development.
43. House arrest
A form of punishment where a person is required to stay within their residence as a means of restricting their freedom. House arrest is often used as an alternative to incarceration for non-violent offenders or individuals awaiting trial.
- For example, a judge might sentence a person to house arrest for a specified period of time.
- In a discussion about criminal justice, someone might argue, “House arrest is a more humane punishment than imprisonment.”
- A person under house arrest might say, “I can’t leave my house except for approved reasons, like going to work or medical appointments.”
44. Boot camp
A form of punishment or training that involves strict rules, physical exercise, and rigorous discipline. Boot camps are often used as a means of rehabilitating individuals or teaching them discipline and obedience.
- For instance, a judge might sentence a young offender to attend a boot camp instead of serving jail time.
- In a conversation about military training, someone might say, “Boot camp is designed to break you down and build you back up.”
- A parent might threaten their child, “If you don’t behave, I’ll send you to boot camp!”
45. Fine
A monetary punishment imposed as a consequence for a violation of rules or laws. Fines can vary in amount depending on the seriousness of the offense.
- For example, a person might receive a fine for speeding or parking in a restricted area.
- In a discussion about financial penalties, someone might argue, “Fines should be proportionate to a person’s income to ensure fairness.”
- A person who received a fine might complain, “I can’t believe I have to pay such a hefty fine for a minor infraction.”
46. Isolation
This refers to a form of punishment where a person, typically a child, is separated from others and placed alone in a designated area for a specific amount of time as a consequence for misbehavior.
- For instance, a parent might say, “If you don’t stop fighting, you’ll have to go into isolation for 10 minutes.”
- In a classroom setting, a teacher might use isolation as a disciplinary measure for disruptive students.
- A person discussing parenting strategies might say, “Time-out is an effective way to teach children about consequences.”
47. Shaming
This is a form of punishment where a person is publicly exposed or embarrassed for their actions or behavior, often with the intention of making them feel guilty or remorseful.
- For example, a person might say, “He was caught stealing and was subjected to public shaming.”
- In online communities, individuals might engage in shaming behavior by calling out someone for offensive or inappropriate comments.
- A person discussing the impact of shaming might argue, “While it can be a powerful deterrent, public shaming can also have long-lasting negative effects on a person’s mental health.”
48. Black mark
This refers to a negative mark or blemish on a person’s reputation or record as a result of their actions or behavior.
- For instance, a teacher might say, “Cheating on the exam will leave a black mark on your academic record.”
- In a professional setting, a supervisor might warn an employee, “Repeated tardiness will result in a black mark on your performance evaluation.”
- A person discussing the consequences of unethical behavior might mention, “A black mark on your reputation can be difficult to overcome.”
49. Sent to the corner
This is a form of punishment where a person, typically a child, is directed to stand or sit in a designated corner of a room as a consequence for misbehavior.
- For example, a parent might say, “If you don’t stop throwing tantrums, you’ll be sent to the corner.”
- In a classroom, a teacher might use sending a student to the corner as a disciplinary measure.
- A person discussing parenting techniques might mention, “Sending a child to the corner can give them an opportunity to reflect on their actions.”
50. Confined to room
This refers to a form of punishment where a person, usually a child or teenager, is prohibited from leaving their room or engaging in certain activities as a consequence for misbehavior.
- For instance, a parent might say, “Because you broke curfew, you’ll be confined to your room for the weekend.”
- In a discussion about discipline, a person might say, “Grounding can be an effective way to teach responsibility and accountability.”
- A person discussing the impact of being confined to one’s room might argue, “It can be a valuable time for reflection and self-improvement.”
51. Stand in the corner
This is a form of punishment where a person is required to stand facing the corner of a room for a designated period of time as a consequence for their behavior.
- For example, a parent might say, “If you don’t stop misbehaving, you’ll have to stand in the corner for five minutes.”
- A teacher might give a student a time-out and say, “You need to think about your actions, so go stand in the corner for ten minutes.”
- In a discussion about discipline methods, someone might mention, “Time-outs, like standing in the corner, can be an effective way to teach children about consequences.”
52. Push-ups
This refers to a punishment where a person is required to perform a certain number of push-ups as a consequence for their behavior.
- For instance, a coach might say, “If you don’t follow the rules, you’ll have to do 10 push-ups.”
- In a military setting, a sergeant might assign push-ups as a disciplinary action and say, “Drop and give me 20!”
- A fitness instructor might use push-ups as a consequence for not following instructions and say, “If you can’t do the exercise correctly, you’ll have to do 5 push-ups.”
53. Early bedtime
This is a form of punishment where a person is required to go to bed earlier than their usual bedtime as a consequence for their behavior.
- For example, a parent might say, “Since you didn’t finish your homework, you’ll have an early bedtime tonight.”
- A caregiver might use early bedtime as a consequence for a child’s misbehavior and say, “If you don’t listen, you’ll have lights out at 7 p.m.”
- In a discussion about discipline strategies, someone might suggest, “Having an early bedtime can help children understand the importance of completing their responsibilities.”
54. No dessert
This refers to a punishment where a person is not allowed to have any dessert as a consequence for their behavior.
- For instance, a parent might say, “Because you didn’t eat your vegetables, there will be no dessert for you.”
- A teacher might use the ban on sweet treats as a consequence for a student’s disruptive behavior and say, “If you continue to disrupt the class, you won’t get any dessert at lunch.”
- In a discussion about rewards and consequences, someone might mention, “Taking away dessert can be an effective way to teach children about making healthy choices and following rules.”
55. Apology letter
This is a form of punishment where a person is required to write a letter apologizing for their behavior as a consequence.
- For example, a teacher might say, “You need to write an apology letter to your classmate for your hurtful words.”
- A parent might assign an apology letter as a consequence for a child’s actions and say, “You need to write a letter apologizing to your sibling for taking their toy.”
- In a discussion about teaching empathy and accountability, someone might suggest, “Having a child write an apology letter can help them understand the impact of their actions and learn how to take responsibility.”
56. Loss of allowance
When a person’s allowance is taken away as a form of punishment. This is often used as a disciplinary measure for children or teenagers.
- For example, a parent might say, “If you don’t clean your room, you’ll have a loss of allowance.”
- In a discussion about parenting, someone might mention, “Loss of allowance can be an effective way to teach responsibility.”
- A person reflecting on their childhood might say, “I remember getting a loss of allowance for not doing my homework.”
57. Work detail
A punishment where a person is required to perform specific tasks or chores as a form of discipline. This is often used in correctional facilities or military settings.
- For instance, a prison inmate might be assigned to a work detail, such as cleaning or maintenance.
- In a conversation about military discipline, someone might mention, “Work details are often used to instill discipline and responsibility.”
- A person discussing their experience in a juvenile detention center might say, “I had to do work details as part of my punishment.”
58. Time in the corner
A punishment where a person is required to stand or sit in a designated corner as a form of isolation. This is often used as a disciplinary measure for children.
- For example, a parent might say, “Go sit in the corner and think about what you’ve done.”
- In a discussion about discipline techniques, someone might mention, “Time in the corner can be an effective way to give a child time to reflect.”
- A person reflecting on their childhood might say, “I remember spending many hours in the corner as a punishment.”
59. Early curfew
A punishment where a person’s curfew is set earlier than usual, limiting their freedom to stay out late. This is often used as a disciplinary measure for teenagers.
- For instance, a parent might say, “Because of your behavior, your curfew is now 9 PM.”
- In a conversation about parenting strategies, someone might mention, “An early curfew can be an effective way to enforce boundaries.”
- A person discussing their teenage years might say, “I hated having an early curfew as a punishment.”
60. No TV
A punishment where a person is not allowed to watch television as a form of discipline. This is often used as a disciplinary measure for children or teenagers.
- For example, a parent might say, “No TV for a week because you didn’t finish your homework.”
- In a discussion about screen time limits, someone might mention, “No TV can be an effective consequence for misbehavior.”
- A person reflecting on their childhood might say, “I remember having no TV as a punishment, and it was torture.”
61. No phone
Being grounded refers to a form of punishment where a person, usually a child or teenager, is restricted from using their phone or engaging in certain activities as a consequence for their behavior.
- For example, a parent might say, “You’re grounded for a week. No phone, no TV.”
- A teenager might complain, “I can’t believe I got grounded just for missing curfew.”
- A friend might sympathize, “I know it sucks to be grounded, but maybe it’ll teach you a lesson.”