制裁

• Reading: せいさい
• Romaji: seisai
• Kanji breakdown: 制 (sei) — system, control, restrain; 裁 (sai) — judge, cut, decide
• Pronunciation: /seː.sai/

Meaning

Sanctions; punishment. Punitive measures imposed for violating rules, laws, or international norms.

A noun and suru-verb referring to sanctions or punishment imposed for violations of rules or law. In international contexts, commonly combined as 経済制裁 (keizai seisai, economic sanctions). Also used more broadly for disciplinary punishment in organisational or personal settings.

Examples

1. 国連は経済制裁の強化を決議した。 The United Nations passed a resolution to strengthen economic sanctions.
2. 制裁の効果がようやく現れ始めている。 The effects of the sanctions are finally beginning to show.
3. 新たな制裁措置が発表された。 New sanctions measures have been announced.

Usage Guide

Context: international relations, news, law

Tone: serious

Origin & History

From Sino-Japanese: 制 (sei, control/restrain) + 裁 (sai, judge/decide). Originally meant to judge and control, evolved to mean imposing punishment or sanctions.

Cultural Context

Era: Modern

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal