English / idiom
slap on the wrist
MEANING IN ENGLISH
An excessively mild reprimand or punishment for a significant offense.
In context
01
Public respect for the judiciary declined when the corrupt executive received merely a slap on the wrist.
02
A true moral legacy requires authentic accountability rather than an empty slap on the wrist.
Synonyms
light reprimand,token punishment,minor penalty
Antonyms
severe punishment,harsh sentence,strict retribution
Collocations
get a slap on the wrist,receive a slap on the wrist,mere slap on the wrist