retaliate
/ɹɪˈtæli.eɪt/
Group 31Difficulty 1/3
Definition
- (verb)
- To make an attack or assault in return for a similar attack GRE
Example in Context
The government warned that it would retaliate against any further provocations with measures proportionate to the severity of the offense.
Synonyms
strike backrevengerespond
Etymology
To strike back — cutting back at someone who has attacked you.
- re- (Latin) — back
- taliare (Latin) — to cut
Memory Aid
🛍️Sounds like “retail-ate”
A shopper who, after being insulted, throws their shopping bags back at the rude cashier — it's time to RETALIATE!
Visual Association
⚔️A dramatic scene of two gladiators in an arena, fiercely countering each other's attacks.
Semantic Clusters
Synonym Groups
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “retaliate” mean on the GRE?
retaliate (verb) means “To make an attack or assault in return for a similar attack”. The government warned that it would retaliate against any further provocations with measures proportionate to the severity of the offense.
How to remember “retaliate” for the GRE?
Mnemonic: “retaliate” sounds like “retail-ate”. A shopper who, after being insulted, throws their shopping bags back at the rude cashier — it's time to RETALIATE!
What are synonyms for “retaliate”?
Common synonyms: strike back, revenge, respond.