Retribution

C1 16+

Pronunciation: /ˌrɛ.trɪˈbju.ʃən/

Definitions of retribution

noun punishment inflicted on someone as vengeance for a wrong or criminal act

Example Sentences

A1 He believed in karma, the idea that good deeds bring rewards and bad deeds bring retribution.

A2 The villain in the story met his retribution in the end, facing the consequences of his actions.

B1 The criminal received retribution for his crimes, serving a long prison sentence.

B2 In some cultures, retribution is seen as a necessary form of justice to maintain order.

C1 The concept of retribution in the legal system is often debated among scholars and policymakers.

C2 The novel explores themes of revenge and retribution, questioning the morality of seeking vengeance.

Examples of retribution in a Sentence

formal The judge ruled in favor of retribution for the crime committed.

informal He got what was coming to him as retribution for his actions.

slang She dished out some serious retribution for that betrayal.

figurative The storm seemed like nature's retribution for our mistreatment of the environment.

Grammatical Forms of retribution

past tense

retributed

plural

retributions

comparative

more retributive

superlative

most retributive

present tense

retributes

future tense

will retribute

perfect tense

have retributed

continuous tense

is retributing

singular

retribution

positive degree

retributive

infinitive

to retribute

gerund

retributing

participle

retributed

Origin and Evolution of retribution

First Known Use: 1250 year
Language of Origin: Latin
Story behind the word: The word 'retribution' originated from the Latin word 'retributio', which means 'repayment' or 'reward'.
Evolution of the word: Over time, the meaning of 'retribution' has evolved to refer to punishment or retaliation for wrongdoing, rather than just repayment or reward.