Definition

To take legal action against someone who has already taken legal action against you.

Example

After being sued for breach of contract, the company decided to countersue for damages.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you hear that Mark is planning to countersue his neighbor?

Really? I thought the neighbor was the one who started it all.

Yeah, but Mark thinks he has a solid case to countersue.

That could get complicated, but I guess he wants to defend himself.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Countersue → It is formed from "counter-" (meaning against) and "sue" (from Old French *suer*, meaning to follow or pursue in a legal context). The word "countersue" means to pursue a legal action against someone who has already sued you.

Memory Tip

Think of 'counter-' meaning against, and 'sue' meaning to pursue legally. This helps you remember that to countersue means to take legal action against someone who has already taken action against you.

Visually Confused Words