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Retaliate Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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retaliate

[rɪˈtæliˌeɪt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

in response to an action

To retaliate means to take revenge or respond to an action with a similar one. It is an act of returning an injury or wrong. Retaliation can be in various forms, such as a counterattack, reprisal, or vengeance.

Synonyms

avenge, retaliation, revenge, strike back.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
retaliate

This is a duplicate and not necessary to analyze again.
avenge

Often used in a more formal or dramatic context, typically involving a sense of justice or retribution. It implies making things right for someone else's suffering, not just personal revenge.

  • She swore to avenge her brother's death.
  • The superhero's mission was to avenge the innocent.
revenge

Used to describe a personal, often emotional response to a perceived wrong. It has a negative connotation and is more about personal satisfaction rather than justice.

  • She sought revenge on those who had betrayed her.
  • Revenge only brings more pain.
strike back

Informal term that implies an immediate, often physical response to an attack or criticism. It can be used in everyday conversations.

  • When he was insulted, he didn't hesitate to strike back.
  • The team is ready to strike back after last week's loss.
retaliation

Noun form of retaliate, used to describe the act of responding to an injury or wrongdoing. It can be used in legal, military, or personal contexts.

  • The country promised swift retaliation against the attack.
  • Retaliation often leads to further conflict.

Examples of usage

  • He decided to retaliate against his enemy by spreading rumors about him.
  • The country promised to retaliate if attacked by its neighbors.
Context #2 | Verb

in legal terms

In legal terms, to retaliate refers to taking action against someone in response to a complaint or accusation. This could involve a counterclaim or a lawsuit in return for a legal action taken by another party.

Synonyms

counterclaim, lawsuit, legal action.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
retaliate

When someone has been wronged or attacked and they respond in a similar manner, often in anger or revenge. This has a negative connotation.

  • He decided to retaliate against the bully who had been picking on him for months
counterclaim

In legal settings, when the defendant responds to a claim by the plaintiff with their own claim against the plaintiff.

  • The defendant filed a counterclaim, arguing that the plaintiff had actually violated the contract first
legal action

A broader term that encompasses any formal steps taken to enforce legal rights or resolve disputes in court, not limited to lawsuits.

  • They are considering taking legal action to protect their property from encroachment
lawsuit

A general term for a legal case brought to a court by one party against another, often for damages or to enforce a right.

  • She filed a lawsuit against the company for wrongful termination

Examples of usage

  • The company was accused of retaliating against the whistleblower.
  • She filed a lawsuit claiming her employer was retaliating against her for reporting harassment.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'retaliate'

The word 'retaliate' originated from the Latin word 'retaliare', which means 'to requite'. The concept of retaliation has been present in human history for centuries, often as a form of justice or retribution for perceived wrongs. Retaliation has been a common theme in wars, conflicts, and legal disputes, where one party seeks to respond to an action with a similar one. The use of retaliation as a strategy can have both positive and negative consequences, depending on the context and intentions behind it.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #20,590, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.