Intermediate (B1)
IPA: //ˌkaʊntəˈrækʃən//
KK: /ˈkaʊntərˌækʃən/
Definition
An action taken to oppose or counteract another action.
Example
The government implemented a counteraction to the rising pollution levels.
Conversation

Did you hear about the counteraction they planned after the incident?

Yeah, I think it's a good way to show they're not backing down.

Exactly! It's important to respond with a strong counteraction sometimes.

Totally agree — it makes a statement and keeps them on their toes.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
retaliation
response
reaction
Antonyms
submission
surrender
yielding
Root Explanation
Counteraction → It is formed from "counter-" (meaning against) and "actio" (from Latin, meaning action). The word describes an action taken to oppose or counter another action.
Memory Tip
Think of taking an action 'against' ('counter-') something else — that's why counteraction means an opposing action.
Visually Confused Words
contraction
contection
recontraction
incontraction
contradiction
contractional
contractation
contraception