加大惩处力度

You’ll usually see this phrase in newspapers or hear it in meetings. It almost always follows a 'who' and a 'what.' For example, 'The company' (公司) will 加大惩处力度 against 'latecomers' (迟到者). It’s a very structured, heavy-hitting expression. You don't just 'punish'—you increase the 'strength' (力度) of the punishment.

Use this when you're discussing serious topics. It’s perfect for business meetings about policy. It works great in school essays about social issues. If you're debating why people shouldn't litter, this is your go-to phrase. It makes you sound like a policy expert or a concerned citizen. Use it when you want to sound authoritative and firm.

Avoid this phrase in casual, lighthearted settings. If your friend eats your fries, don't say you'll 加大惩处力度. That sounds like you're about to sue them! It’s too stiff for small mistakes among friends. Also, don't use it for accidents. It implies someone intentionally broke a rule and needs a lesson.

In China, social order and collective responsibility are huge. When a major issue hits the news—like food safety or traffic violations—the public expects a strong response. This phrase is the standard way for officials to promise that they are taking action. It’s a linguistic tool for restoring public trust through strictness.

You might hear 加强监管 (strengthen supervision) or 严厉打击 (severely crack down). If you want to be slightly less formal, you could just say 罚得更重 (fine more heavily). But if you want to sound like you mean business, stick with 加大惩处力度.