What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
chastisement
Example
The teacher gave the student a stern chastisement for talking during class. [chastisement: noun]
Example
He was chastised by his parents for breaking the vase. [chastised: past tense verb]
punishment
Example
The thief received a severe punishment for stealing from the store. [punishment: noun]
Example
She was punished by being grounded for a week. [punished: past tense verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Punishment is more commonly used than chastisement in everyday language. Punishment is a broader term that covers a wide range of disciplinary measures, while chastisement is less common and tends to be used in more formal or professional settings.
Whatβs the difference in the tone of formality between chastisement and punishment?
While chastisement is typically associated with a more formal tone, punishment is a more general term that can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
