Retaliatory

usgb/rɪˈtæliətɔːri/
adjective

Made as a revenge or payback for something bad someone else has done.

Many countries impose retaliatory tariffs on imports as a reaction to similar actions of other countries.
Visual representation of "retaliatory" - Made as a revenge or payback for something bad someone else has done.

Often appears as...

  • retaliatory strike
  • retaliatory action
Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "retaliatory"
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Emotional Charge

Retaliatory suggests strong feelings as it's related to vengeance, not just a neutral response.

Illustration for Emotional Charge
The furious owner made a retaliatory eviction after the rent dispute.
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Legal Context

Often used in legal or political situations where actions have formal consequences.

Illustration for Legal Context
The UN condemned the retaliatory airstrikes that followed the peace talks.
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Not Always Negative

While usually negative, retaliatory actions can sometimes be viewed as justified self-defense.

Illustration for Not Always Negative
Despite the attack on their fleet, their retaliatory response was seen as a necessary action.
Visual representation of the word "Retaliatory"

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