Inflicting a penalty is often considered as a consequence of certain actions that go against certain norms or rules. There are various synonyms for the phrase "inflict penalty" depending on the context and gravity of the situation. Some of the most common synonyms include impose a fine, levy punishment, impose sanctions, administer retribution, reprimand, discipline, punish, penalize, and chastise. These words hold different connotations and may refer to different levels of punishment and consequences. Nevertheless, they all refer to a specific act of imposing a negative and corrective outcome to rectify certain actions or behaviors that are deemed unacceptable.