English vocabulary · C2
Reprisal
/rɪˈpraɪ.zəl/ · n.
A reprisal is harm done in return for a past act. The person is punished for something they did first.
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Example sentences
- She feared reprisals for speaking up.
- His firing was a reprisal.
Word origin and roots
from Old French
- reprisaille — payback (from Old French)
Synonyms and nuances
- RETALIATION — harm in return (Strike back)
- REVENGE — pay back a hurt (Settle a score)
- PAYBACK — return a harmful act (Get even)
Similar words
- retaliation
- revenge
- payback
- retribution
- vengeance
Lesson notes
A reprisal is harm done in return for a past act. The person is punished for something they did first.
Related: retaliation, revenge, payback. Use reprisal when harm answers harm.
She feared reprisals for speaking up. His firing was a reprisal.
From Old French. Reprisaille means payback. English reprisal: payback against someone for speaking up at work.