Avenging: meaning, definitions and examples
⚔️
avenging
[əˈvɛnʤɪŋ ]
Definitions
in a revengeful manner
Seeking revenge; characterized by a desire to inflict punishment on someone for a wrong or injury suffered.
Synonyms
retributive, ruthless, vengeful, vindictive.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| avenging |
Used when someone seeks to right a wrong or punish someone for an injustice, typically on behalf of oneself or another person.
|
| vengeful |
Describes a strong desire to seek personal revenge or retaliate against someone who has caused pain or harm.
|
| vindictive |
Carries a negative connotation, used to describe someone who holds grudges and seeks to harm others out of spite or malice, often over minor issues.
|
| ruthless |
Used to describe actions or decisions that show no compassion or pity, often in contexts where someone is very determined to achieve their goals, regardless of the consequences.
|
| retributive |
Often associated with formal systems of justice and punishment, indicating a deserved and justified response to wrongdoing.
|
Examples of usage
- She gave him an avenging look, promising payback for his betrayal.
- The avenging angel of justice was swift and merciless in delivering punishment.
to take vengeance for
To inflict harm in return for (an injury or wrong done to oneself or another).
Synonyms
avenge, punish, retaliate, revenge.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| avenging |
Typically used when someone is seeking to make things right after a wrong has been done, often related to justice or moral duty.
|
| revenge |
Implies a more personal, often emotional response to a wrong, aimed at causing harm or suffering to the wrongdoer. It has a negative connotation.
|
| retaliate |
Used when someone is responding to a wrong or attack with a similar action, often in a tit-for-tat manner.
|
| punish |
Applied when someone is suffering a consequence for their wrong actions, focused on the act of imposing a penalty.
|
| avenge |
Used when someone is taking action to right a wrong done to another person, usually involving a sense of justice.
|
Examples of usage
- He was avenging his brother's death by seeking justice against the killer.
- The hero avenged the murder of his family by defeating the villain.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- Derived from the Old French word 'avenger', which means to take revenge.
- The root 'venge' comes from the Latin 'vindicare' meaning to reclaim or to punish.
- The concept of avenging dates back centuries, often tied to themes of justice in various cultures.
Literature
- Many famous stories feature avenging characters, like Hamlet, who seeks to avenge his father's murder.
- In Greek mythology, the Furies were avenging spirits who punished wrongdoers, representing divine justice.
- Modern superhero tales often revolve around characters who avenge injustices, appealing to our sense of fairness.
Psychology
- The desire for revenge can be driven by feelings of anger, betrayal, or unfair treatment.
- Studies show that while avenging can feel satisfying in the short term, it often leads to a cycle of further conflict and negativity.
- Forgiveness is often presented as a healthier alternative to the urge for revenge, promoting emotional healing.
Pop Culture
- The 'Avengers', a popular franchise, uses the concept of avenging for superheroes fighting against villains to protect the innocent.
- Movies like 'Kill Bill' feature strong themes of avenging, showcasing the complexity and moral dilemmas of seeking revenge.
- Songs often explore themes of heartache and the desire for vengeance, resonating with emotional experiences.
History
- Throughout history, many tribes and cultures engaged in blood feuds where avenging a wrong was seen as an expected duty.
- The concept of honor often ties to avenging wrongs in various historical contexts, shaping societal norms around justice.
- The theme of avenging is prevalent in historical conflicts, where leaders sought retribution for attacks on their people.
Translations
Translations of the word "avenging" in other languages:
🇵🇹 vingança
🇮🇳 प्रतिशोध
🇩🇪 Rache
🇮🇩 balas dendam
🇺🇦 помста
🇵🇱 zemsta
🇯🇵 復讐
🇫🇷 vengeance
🇪🇸 venganza
🇹🇷 intikam
🇰🇷 복수
🇸🇦 انتقام
🇨🇿 pomsta
🇸🇰 pomsta
🇨🇳 复仇
🇸🇮 maščevanje
🇮🇸 hefnd
🇰🇿 кек алу
🇬🇪 შურისძიება
🇦🇿 qisas
🇲🇽 venganza