revenge
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /rɪˈvɛndʒ/
KK: /rɪˈvɛndʒ/
noun
Definition
The act of getting back at someone for something they did, often because of a feeling of anger or hurt.
Example
He planned his revenge after being betrayed by his friend.
Conversation
I can't believe he did that to me; I feel like I need some kind of revenge.
I get it, but sometimes it's better to let things go instead of plotting revenge.
True, but it just feels unfair to let him off the hook so easily.
Maybe focus on moving forward instead; that's the best kind of revenge.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
vengeance
retribution
payback
Antonyms
forgiveness
pardon
mercy
transitive verb
Definition
To cause harm or punishment to someone because they have harmed you or someone else.
Example
He sought to take revenge on those who wronged him.
Tense Forms
Past: revenged
Past Participle: revenged
Conversation
I can't believe what they did to you last week.
I know, right? It's so frustrating!
You should really revenge yourself somehow.
Root Explanation
Revenge is formed from "re-" (meaning again) and "vindicare" (meaning to claim or avenge). The word describes the act of claiming or avenging something again, often in response to a perceived wrong.
Memory Tip
Think of 'again' ('re-') and 'claiming' or 'avenging' ('vindicare') to remember that revenge means to seek to right a wrong that has been done.
Visually Confused Words
reenge
prevene
unrevenged
prerevenge
nonrevenge
greenage