What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
comeuppance
Example
After years of cheating and lying, he finally got his comeuppance when he was caught red-handed. [comeuppance: noun]
Example
She thought she could get away with it, but her comeuppance came when her lies were exposed. [comeuppance: noun]
punishment
Example
The judge handed down a severe punishment for the crime committed. [punishment: noun]
Example
Timeout is a common form of punishment used by parents to discipline their children. [punishment: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Punishment is a more commonly used term in everyday language, while comeuppance is less frequently employed and may be considered more informal or literary.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between comeuppance and punishment?
While punishment can be used in both formal and informal contexts, comeuppance is generally associated with a more casual or literary tone.
