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Retaliating Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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retaliating

[rɪˈtæl.i.eɪt ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

response to harm

Retaliating is the act of opposing or responding to an action that is perceived as harmful. It often involves a counter-attack or revenge against someone or something that has caused injury or insult. This behavior is frequently seen in conflicts, where one party reacts to an aggressive act by the other. Retaliation can occur in personal relationships, workplace dynamics, or even in international relations. While it might serve as a means of seeking justice or balancing power, such actions can also escalate conflicts and lead to further consequences.

Synonyms

counterattack, reprisal, revenge, vengeance.

Examples of usage

  • The country retaliated with airstrikes.
  • He felt the need to retaliate after being insulted.
  • She decided against retaliating, opting for forgiveness instead.
  • Retaliating can often worsen the situation.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Studies show that retaliating can often escalate conflicts rather than resolve them, highlighting the need for peaceful solutions.
  • Research indicates that people may feel a temporary relief after retaliating, but this can lead to long-term negative feelings and stress.

Literature

  • In many classic stories, characters face the choice of retaliation or forgiveness, often revealing their true nature and moral values.
  • Shakespeare's plays frequently explore themes of revenge and retaliation, showing how characters are caught in cycles of conflict.

Cultural Perspectives

  • Different cultures have various views on retaliation; some see it as justified while others promote forgiveness and non-violence.
  • In many spiritual traditions, there’s a belief that seeking revenge only perpetuates a cycle of pain, promoting the idea of letting go instead.

Conflict Resolution

  • Experts suggest that instead of retaliating, discussing feelings openly can lead to better understanding and resolution.
  • Constructive responses to hurtful actions, like talking it out, can often solve issues more effectively than retaliation.

Origin of 'retaliating'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'retaliare,' meaning 'to repay' or 'to return,' connecting it to themes of response.
  • It first appeared in English in the early 17th century, reflecting conflicts during political and military struggles at the time.

The word 'retaliate' originates from the Latin term 'retaliatus', which is the past participle of 'retaliare', meaning 'to return in kind'. The root 'talio' in Latin refers to the principle of exacting a penalty that is equal to the wrong done, encapsulating the notion of proportionality in punishment. This concept has been reflected throughout various cultures and historical contexts, often associated with themes of justice, revenge, and balance. Over time, the word evolved into Middle French as 'retalier', which then made its way into English in the late 15th century. In English, it has maintained its core meaning of responding in kind to an offensive act, especially in situations where a sense of injustice is felt.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #32,714 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.