retaliation
Retaliation (noun) means an act of revenge carried out in response to harm. Example: “The attack was seen as retaliation for the earlier bombing.”
How to use retaliation
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishPayback for being wronged.
Word forms
retaliations plural
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The attack was seen as _____ for the earlier bombing.
Synonyms
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Rhymes for retaliation
Frequently asked questions
What does “retaliation” mean?
The word “retaliation” means an act of revenge carried out in response to harm. In plain terms, payback for being wronged.
How do you pronounce “retaliation”?
“Retaliation” is pronounced ree-tal-ee-AY-shuhn (/ɹɪˌtæl.iˈeɪ.ʃən/ in IPA).
How do you use “retaliation” in a sentence?
Here is “retaliation” used in a sentence: “The attack was seen as retaliation for the earlier bombing.”
What part of speech is “retaliation”?
“Retaliation” is a noun.
Is “retaliation” a common word?
“Retaliation” is an uncommon word in modern English.
What is the difference between retaliation and revenge?
Retaliation and revenge both describe acts carried out in response to harm, and the terms overlap closely in meaning, though retaliation often implies a direct, proportionate response, while revenge can carry a stronger sense of personal satisfaction or emotional payback. Retaliation is also more commonly used in formal, legal, or political contexts, such as workplace retaliation or military retaliation.
What is the difference between retaliation and self-defense?
Retaliation is an act of revenge carried out after harm has already occurred, whereas self-defense is action taken to protect oneself during an ongoing threat or attack. Self-defense is generally viewed as protective and immediate, while retaliation happens afterward as a response.
What is workplace retaliation?
Workplace retaliation refers to an employer taking adverse action against an employee in response to that employee reporting misconduct, filing a complaint, or exercising a legal right. This is a specific application of the general meaning of retaliation as an act of revenge carried out in response to perceived harm.