penalty box

Definitions

1. An enclosed bench where a player must remain for timed period (a penalty) that is assessed after an infraction.
2. The penalty area.
3. A temporary punishment, or, metaphorically, a similar setback (e.g., loss of control, embarrassment, etc.).
   figuratively, idiomatic

Equivalents

Examples

“Both players got to cool their heels for five minutes in their respective penalty boxes after the fight⟳.”

“At times, Swindon's penalty box resembled a pinball machine.”

“A visit⟳ to the penalty box occurs when the salesman has relinquished control⟳ of the sales call⟳ by immediately answering the customer's question⟳.”

“What can land⟳ you in this metaphorical holding cell, the penalty box of Catholicism?”

“Florida, Michigan seek⟳ exit from Democratic penalty box”

CEFR level