Synonyms of retribution

retribution

noun

ˌre-trə-ˈbyü-shən 

as in revenge

the act or an instance of responding to an injury with an injury

the neighborhood is being torn apart by an endless cycle of gang violence and retribution

Synonyms & Similar Words

• revenge
• retaliation
• vengeance
• punishment
• reprisal
• payback
• compensation
• counterattack
• requital
• chastisement
• castigation
• wrath
• counteroffensive
• correction
• counter
• redress
• penalty
• restitution
• amends
• indemnity
• reparation(s)
• recompense
• indemnification
• discipline
• desert(s)
• recoupment
• nemesis
• remuneration
• quittance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• mercy
• grace
• leniency
• clemency
• forgiveness
• pardon
• remission
• lenity

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of retribution

Catherine’s story line evokes a feverish what-if scenario in which a survivor musters the requisite recklessness, talent for murder, and wig collection to mete out retribution. — Inkoo Kang, New Yorker, 30 July 2026

This week, the network delivered a sharp retort, accusing the agency of waging a campaign of political retribution. — Meg James, Los Angeles Times, 30 July 2026

Thrillers give readers an immersive experience of justice, letting readers feel retribution and closure in their bones. — Ashley Winstead, PEOPLE, 11 July 2026

The public enemy is not a character in the drama of the American legal system, which stands solidly atop a foundation of justice, and not arbitrary power and indiscriminate retribution. — David B McGarry, Oc Register, 8 July 2026