Revenge: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when someone seeks to inflict harm or punishment on someone else in a personal manner as a response to a wrong they have suffered. It often implies a more emotional, and sometimes irrational, response.

• "He sought revenge for his sister's death by tracking down the criminals."
• "Revenge motivated her every action after the betrayal."

Used when someone seeks retribution driven by a strong desire for justice or righteousness. It often has a dramatic and intense connotation, suggesting a deeper sense of moral or personal vindication.

• "He swore to seek vengeance for the injustice done to his family."
• "Her vow for vengeance consumed her every thought."

Used to indicate any act of returning harm or punishment for an offense or injury. It is more neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. It implies a calculated response.

• "The workers planned a strike in retaliation for unfair labor practices."
• "She feared retaliation after reporting the harassment."

Used mainly in formal or military contexts to describe an act of retaliation against an enemy in response to an attack or injury. It suggests a systematic and strategic response.

• "The government launched a reprisal for the enemy's bombing of the village."
• "In reprisal, the troops carried out a coordinated strike."