刑 penalty

OK, I will pay the penalty (if it will put an end to your giant-ass lecture about irresponsibility and morals)

The death penalty is when they open up your whole torso with a sword.

jail/prison ★★★☆☆
刑 (penalty) + 務 (perform a task) + 所 (area / attribute) = 刑務所 (jail/prison)

death penalty ★★☆☆☆
死 (death) + 刑 (penalty) = 死刑 (death penalty)