Reprisal

usgb/rɪˈpraɪzl/
noun

An action done to hurt or punish someone who has hurt you or your people.

The country made a reprisal for the terrorist attack by bombing the terrorists' camp.
Visual representation of "reprisal" - an action done to hurt or punish someone who has hurt you or your people

Often appears as...

  • acts of reprisal
  • fear of reprisal
Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "reprisal"
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Negative Connotation

Reprisal suggests negative feelings and is often associated with harm or revenge.

Illustration for Negative Connotation
The workers faced reprisals for their participation in the strike.
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Response to Harm

Use 'reprisal' when a harmful act is done in response to a previous wrongdoing.

Illustration for Response to Harm
The siblings' prank war escalated with each reprisal.
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Fear as a Deterrent

The fear of reprisal can prevent people from acting against injustice or speaking out.

Illustration for Fear as a Deterrent
Many avoided criticizing the leader due to fear of reprisal.
Visual representation of the word "Reprisal"

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