sanction

sanction　认许，制裁　

1.general：formal approval or authorization.2.international relations：punitive or restrictive measures taken usually by several countries in concert to pressure a country to change its certain policies.（1）economic sanctions ban trading with the offending country.（2）diplomatic sanctions result in withdrawal of relations and representations.3.law：penalty or punitive action imposed for failure to comply with a court order，law，or regulation.