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

Over time, Buddhism introduced ideas of reincarnation and karmic retribution, linking a person's fate after death to their actions in life. — Arkansas Online, 4 Oct. 2026

Those who provided the information declined to be identified for fear of retribution amid uncertainty over who controlled the city. — Rodney Muhumuza, Los Angeles Times, 3 Oct. 2026

The people familiar with the discussions spoke on the condition of anonymity to avoid retribution from the administration. — Rick Maese, Washington Post, 30 Sep. 2026

But all of the hospital’s medical providers with the TRUE Center for Gender Diversity refused to prescribe the treatment to minors out of fear of retribution from the federal government, according to the ruling. — Katie Langford, Denver Post, 23 Sep. 2026