In which sentence is the word punitive used correctly?
A. Mario proposed an ingenious, punitive solution to the math problem.
B. Teresa’s report was punitive, and she added to its interest by presenting a brilliant slide show.
C. The jury’s verdict awarded the plaintiff $3 million in punitive damages.
D. The candidate conducted a punitive campaign, reassuring the voters that there would be no tax increase.
D?
No.
What does punitive mean?
Something that's involved with punishment is it C ?
Right. C is correct.
Thank you
You're very welcome.
No, the word "punitive" is not used correctly in sentence D. To verify the correct usage of the word "punitive," let's examine the meaning of the word. "Punitive" refers to something that is intended as punishment or retribution. With this definition in mind, we can analyze the options:
A. Mario proposed an ingenious, punitive solution to the math problem.
In this sentence, the word "punitive" is used incorrectly because a punitive solution does not align with the idea of a math problem. Punitive would indicate a punishment, which does not make sense in the context of solving a math problem.
B. Teresa’s report was punitive, and she added to its interest by presenting a brilliant slide show.
Here, the word "punitive" does not fit correctly. In this sentence, punitive suggests that the report was intended as punishment, which is not a logical interpretation. Reports are not typically designed to serve as punishment.
C. The jury’s verdict awarded the plaintiff $3 million in punitive damages.
In this sentence, the word "punitive" is used correctly. Punitive damages refer to financial compensation that is awarded as a way to punish the defendant for their actions.
Therefore, the correct answer is C. The sentence "The jury’s verdict awarded the plaintiff $3 million in punitive damages." uses the word "punitive" correctly.