Retributive, in its essence, describes something intended to inflict punishment or vengeance. It signifies a response driven by a desire for retribution, often linked to the idea of 'an eye for an eye.' This concept implies the act of repaying a wrongdoing with an equivalent harm or penalty. It underlines the implementation of punishments, sanctions, or actions designed to 'get even' or to correct a past injustice, by causing harm or suffering to the perpetrator. The purpose of retributive actions is often to deter future offenses, demonstrate societal disapproval, or provide a sense of closure for victims.
Retributive meaning with examples
- The harsh penalties imposed by the judge, including lengthy prison sentences, were viewed by some as retributive, aiming to punish the criminals for their violent crimes and deter others. The state, emphasizing the seriousness of the offense, implemented the retributive justice system to communicate zero tolerance for violent acts.
- Following the devastating attack, the government launched a retributive military campaign, targeting those believed responsible for the attack. Critics worried that such retributive actions might fuel a cycle of violence, increasing suffering and resulting in a loss of innocent lives in a cycle of revenge.
- Driven by a sense of betrayal, the employee sought retributive measures against his former employer, publicizing confidential information to damage the company's reputation. He felt the organization had wronged him, and he intended to bring pain to the business by retribution.
- The ancient law codes often contained retributive punishments, such as the death penalty for murder or the amputation of a limb for theft, reflecting a system where the severity of the punishment directly mirrored the severity of the crime. This system aimed to establish equality in the punishment for the offense.
Retributive Synonyms
avenging punitive repaying requital retaliatory revengeful vengeful vindictiveRetributive Antonyms
compassionate forgiving lenient merciful reconciliatory rehabilitativeRetributive Crossword Answers
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RELATIATIVE RETALIATORY RETRIBUTORY VINDICATORY