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Retributive: meaning, definitions and examples

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retributive

 

[rɪˈtrɪbjʊtɪv ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

legal system

Relating to or characterized by retribution, especially as a punishment or revenge.

Synonyms

punitive, revengeful, vindictive.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
retributive

When referring to justice or actions intended to punish someone in proportion to their wrongdoings, often used in legal or moral discussions.

  • The court's decision was retributive, aiming to deliver fair punishment for the crime
punitive

Used when describing measures or actions aimed at imposing punishment, especially in a strict or harsh manner.

  • The new tax laws were seen as punitive by small business owners
vindictive

Describes someone who has a strong and excessive desire for revenge, often used in personal relationships and portraying a negative characteristic.

  • Her vindictive behavior alienated her friends and family
revengeful

Often used in personal contexts where someone desires to inflict harm or suffering in retaliation for a perceived wrong, carrying a negative connotation.

  • His revengeful attitude made it difficult for him to forgive those who hurt him

Examples of usage

  • Retributive justice is often seen as an eye for an eye approach.
  • The retributive nature of the punishment shocked many observers.
Context #2 | Adjective

philosophy

Involving or relating to the punishment of someone because they have done something wrong.

Synonyms

corrective, disciplinary, penal.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
retributive

Used when referring to justice or punishment that is deserved and proportionate to the offense. Often used in legal, moral, or philosophical discussions.

  • The retributive nature of the sentence was intended to reflect the severity of the crime.
  • He believed in retributive justice, where wrongdoers should suffer consequences equal to their misdeeds.
penal

Used in legal or criminal justice contexts. Relates to punishments, laws, and systems designed to deal with crime and its consequences. Often neutral but can carry a harsh connotation depending on context.

  • The penal code outlines the various offenses and their corresponding punishments.
  • Penal institutions are designed to detain and rehabilitate offenders.
corrective

Used when referring to efforts aimed at correcting or improving behavior or conditions. Common in educational, psychological, and correctional settings.

  • The program focuses on corrective measures to help troubled youth.
  • Corrective actions were taken to address the errors in the report.
disciplinary

Used in situations involving rules and enforcement, often within organizations, schools, or military contexts. Usually pertains to maintaining order or punishing rule violations.

  • The company implemented strict disciplinary measures to prevent further misconduct.
  • She faced disciplinary action for repeatedly breaking the school's code of conduct.

Examples of usage

  • The retributive theory of punishment focuses on the moral responsibility of the individual.
  • Many philosophers debate the effectiveness of retributive justice.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the Latin 'retributivus', which means 'to repay' or 'to give back'.
  • It evolved from 'retributio', meaning 'a giving back', reflecting the core idea of returning an action.
  • Usage can be traced back to early legal discussions in the 14th century, focusing on punishment and justice.

Philosophy

  • Retributive justice is often contrasted with restorative justice, which focuses on healing victims rather than punishing offenders.
  • Philosophers like Immanuel Kant argued for retributive justice as a moral necessity, stating that punishment is a duty to maintain law and order.
  • The principle holds that punishment should be proportionate to the crime, emphasizing a sense of balance in justice.

Law

  • In legal systems, retributive justice is foundational, focusing on the belief that wrongdoers deserve punishment.
  • Many legal experts argue that this form of justice can deter future crime, as potential offenders fear the consequences.
  • Some argue, however, that it may not effectively reduce crime rates compared to rehabilitation-focused approaches.

Psychology

  • Studies suggest that feelings of vengeance can be linked to a desire for retributive justice, often leading individuals to seek revenge.
  • Psychological theories propose that a strong sense of fairness plays a crucial role, driving people to advocate for retribution.
  • Research indicates that while punitive measures can satisfy a desire for justice, they may not lead to long-term emotional healing for victims.

Literature

  • Retributive themes commonly appear in classic literature, often portraying the moral dilemmas of punishment and revenge.
  • Works like Shakespeare's 'Hamlet' explore the effects of revenge and justice, reflecting on the consequences of retributive actions.
  • Modern novels sometimes critique retributive justice, urging readers to consider alternatives that prioritize reconciliation.

Translations

Translations of the word "retributive" in other languages:

🇵🇹 retributivo

🇮🇳 प्रतिशोधात्मक

🇩🇪 vergeltend

🇮🇩 retrubutif

🇺🇦 репресивний

🇵🇱 retribucyjny

🇯🇵 報復的

🇫🇷 rétributif

🇪🇸 retributivo

🇹🇷 cezalandırıcı

🇰🇷 보복적인

🇸🇦 انتقامي

🇨🇿 retributivní

🇸🇰 retributívny

🇨🇳 报复的

🇸🇮 retributiven

🇮🇸 refsingar

🇰🇿 кек алу

🇬🇪 სასჯელო

🇦🇿 cəzalandırıcı

🇲🇽 retributivo

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #26,718, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.