Punitiveness refers to the attitude or tendency to impose punishment on someone as a corrective measure. There are several synonyms for the word punitiveness, including severity, strictness, harshness, rigidity, and inflexibility. All of these words suggest a belief in the necessity of punishment to correct or deter bad behavior. Other synonyms for punitiveness include retribution, revenge, and retaliation, which convey a sense of anger and a desire for payback. Conversely, forgiveness, mercy, and leniency are antonyms of punitiveness, indicating a willingness to show kindness and compassion rather than impose punishment.