The spelling of the word "are sanctioned" might seem confusing with its mix of vowel sounds. However, knowing the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) can help. The "are" sound is pronounced as /ɑr/, with an "a" sound like in "car" combined with an "r" sound. The "sanctioned" part is pronounced as /ˈsæŋkʃənd/, with the stress on the first syllable and a mix of sounds: "s" as in "sit," "a" as in "cat," "ng" as in "singer," "k" as in "kite," and "sh" as in "shoe."
The phrase "are sanctioned" is commonly used to refer to a situation where an action, behavior, or decision is officially approved, authorized, or supported by a formal authority. It implies that the action or behavior in question has undergone a process of evaluation or review and has been deemed acceptable or permissible by a governing body, institution, or set of rules.
When an action or behavior is "sanctioned," it signifies that it has received explicit endorsement, validation, or permission from a recognized authority. Sanctions can be imposed by various entities, such as governments, regulatory bodies, organizations, or even social norms within a community. They can take the form of legal regulations, official decrees, governmental orders, organizational policies, or unanimous agreements among members of a group.
Being "sanctioned" implies that the authority granting permission or approval has evaluated the action or behavior against some predefined criteria or standards, such as legality, ethical considerations, compliance with organizational policies, or alignment with social norms. Thus, the term "are sanctioned" suggests that the action or behavior in question is compliant and in line with the rules and expectations of the governing body or institution.
However, it is important to note that the term "sanctioned" does not necessarily connote a positive judgment on the action or behavior. Sometimes, sanctions can be imposed as a form of penalty, restriction, or consequence for actions that are deemed inappropriate, unlawful, or in violation of established norms.