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Retaliated: meaning, definitions and examples

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retaliated

 

[rɪˈtæl.i.eɪtɪd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

action taken

To retaliate means to respond to an action or attack by inflicting harm or injury back on the original aggressor. It often suggests a personal or moral imperative to fight back in defense of oneself or one's values. Retaliatory actions can occur in various contexts, including interpersonal disputes, military engagements, or competitive environments. The act of retaliation can both escalate and resolve conflicts, depending on the circumstances and reactions of the parties involved.

Synonyms

counter, requite, strike back, venge.

Examples of usage

  • He retaliated against his opponent's aggressive behavior.
  • The country retaliated with stronger sanctions.
  • She felt compelled to retaliate after being wronged.
  • They retaliated swiftly to the attack.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the Latin 'retaliari', which means 'to return' or 'to repay'.
  • In Middle English, it evolved into 'retaliete', emphasizing the idea of returning an action.

History

  • Throughout history, many cultures have practiced retaliation as a concept of justice, often leading to feuds.
  • The concept of retaliation is formally used in legal terms, where a victim may seek revenge or restitution.

Psychology

  • Retaliation can often arise from feelings of anger and betrayal, as individuals feel a need to restore balance.
  • Studies suggest that people who retaliate may feel momentarily satisfied, but it can lead to long-term negative consequences.

Pop Culture

  • Retaliation is a common theme in movies and literature, where characters seek revenge as a driving force in their stories.
  • In many action films, the hero often retaliates against a villain, sparking epic battles and dramatic moments.

Conflict Resolution

  • Experts suggest that retaliation can escalate conflicts, making peaceful resolution more difficult.
  • Restorative justice models initiate dialogue rather than retaliation, focusing on healing rather than revenge.

Translations

Translations of the word "retaliated" in other languages:

🇵🇹 retaliou

🇮🇳 प्रतिशोध लिया

🇩🇪 vergalt

🇮🇩 membalas

🇺🇦 відплатив

🇵🇱 zemścił się

🇯🇵 報復した

🇫🇷 a riposté

🇪🇸 se vengó

🇹🇷 intikam aldı

🇰🇷 보복했다

🇸🇦 انتقم

🇨🇿 pomstil se

🇸🇰 pomstil sa

🇨🇳 报复了

🇸🇮 maščevati

🇮🇸 hefnd

🇰🇿 кек алуға

🇬🇪 შეუკვეთეს

🇦🇿 intiqam aldı

🇲🇽 se vengó

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #23,953, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.