Punishment

to give someone a mild warning or punish them in a way that is not harsh

The boss often slaps employees on the wrist for minor mistakes.

to make someone face the consequences or legal repercussions of their actions

The prosecutor is determined to bring the corrupt politician to book for his illegal activities.

to accept and confront the punishment or consequence of one's wrongdoings or irresponsible actions

Despite his anxiety, he knows he must face the music and deliver the presentation.

to be deserving of something that happens to one, particularly something that is unpleasant

He has it coming for constantly disrespecting his colleagues.

to take the blame for another person's actions or accept full responsibility for a crime or wrongdoing that other people were also part of

He takes the fall for his team's mistake to protect their reputation.

something extremely hard that one goes through, often as a punishment

I understand that you are sorry for your actions, but there is no need to wear a hair shirt because of it.All is forgiven.

in or to prison confinement

He is up the river, serving a 10-year sentence for his involvement in the robbery.

to take legal action against someone and demand so much money and damages from them that it leaves them with nothing

She is determined to sue the pants off the company that plagiarized her book.

someone who is prone to lose something that is of great value or importance to them, such as their position, job, title, etc.

He was accused of sexual harassment, and after the investigation, he became a dead man walking at the university.

to officially punish someone by death

The court puts the convicted murderer to death by lethal injection.

to formally confront someone and demand an explanation for their conduct and actions, especially those in positions of authority who are deemed responsible

The committee is determined to bring the corrupt officials to account for their embezzlement.

to give someone a mild punishment for a mistake or wrongdoing

The teacher raps the student over the knuckles for talking during the lesson.

a situation where there will be severe consequences or difficulties as a result of certain actions or events

There's the devil to pay if you don't finish your assignment on time.