Retributive: meaning, definitions and examples
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retributive
[ rɪˈtrɪbjʊtɪv ]
legal system
Relating to or characterized by retribution, especially as a punishment or revenge.
Synonyms
punitive, revengeful, vindictive
Examples of usage
- Retributive justice is often seen as an eye for an eye approach.
- The retributive nature of the punishment shocked many observers.
philosophy
Involving or relating to the punishment of someone because they have done something wrong.
Synonyms
corrective, disciplinary, penal
Examples of usage
- The retributive theory of punishment focuses on the moral responsibility of the individual.
- Many philosophers debate the effectiveness of retributive justice.
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 origin
The word 'retributive' is derived from the Latin word 'retributus', which means 'given back'. It first appeared in the English language in the 17th century. The concept of retribution as a form of justice has deep roots in various cultures and legal systems, dating back to ancient times. The idea of balancing the scales of justice through retributive punishment remains a controversial topic in modern society.