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reprisal

noun

/rɪˈprʌɪzl/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of reprisal

A retaliatory act taken in response to an injury, damage or harm caused by another person or group.
"Terrorists kidnapped several hostages in reprisal for capturing their leader."

Detailed meaning of reprisal

It is an act of retribution or vengeance against someone who has caused harm. A reprisal can be carried out by individuals, organizations or nations. It is a form of punishment for wrongdoing or an attempt to prevent further harm. Reprisals can take different forms, including military action, economic sanctions, or social or legal penalties. In international law, reprisals are subject to certain restrictions, as they can easily escalate into acts of war or violence.

Example sentences containing reprisal

1. The army threatened to take reprisals against the villagers if they didn't provide information about the enemy's location.
2. The protestors feared they would face reprisals from the authorities for their activism.
3. The company faced reprisals from customers after it was revealed that they had been selling unsafe products.
4. The school principal warned the students that any reprisals for bullying would not be tolerated.
5. The government announced that they would be imposing economic reprisals against a hostile nation.
6. The employee was afraid of reprisals from their boss after reporting unethical behavior.

History and etymology of reprisal

The noun 'reprisal' has its origins in the French language, specifically from the Old French word 'reprisaille.' The term 'reprisaille' is believed to have been influenced by the Latin word 'reprehendere,' which means 'to seize' or 'to take back.' This Latin root reflects the essence of 'reprisal' as a retaliatory action taken in response to an injury, damage, or harm inflicted by another party. Over time, 'reprisaille' evolved into 'reprisal' in English, retaining its fundamental meaning of taking action to redress a wrong or harm, typically through a retaliatory measure.

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Further usage examples of reprisal

1. The victim of the crime was afraid of reprisals from the criminal's associates.
2. The union threatened to take reprisals against the company if their demands were not met.
3. The family of the murder victim called for reprisals against the killer.
4. The country vowed to take military reprisals against their enemy after a terrorist attack.
5. The police officer was suspended pending an investigation into allegations of reprisals against a suspect.
6. The politician faced reprisals from their party after publicly criticizing the leader's policies.
7. The whistleblower faced potential reprisal for exposing corporate wrongdoing, risking job security.
8. The government's crackdown on dissidents resulted in harsh reprisals, sparking international outrage.
9. A single act of reprisal can ignite a cycle of violence and retaliation, perpetuating conflicts.
10. In war-torn regions, civilians often bear the brunt of reprisals, enduring unimaginable suffering.
11. Fear of reprisals can deter individuals from reporting abuse, perpetuating a culture of silence.
12. Reprisals against minority communities highlight the urgent need for human rights protections.
13. The international community condemned the use of chemical weapons, calling for reprisals.
14. Reprisals against whistleblowers undermine transparency and accountability in organizations.
15. Diplomatic efforts aim to prevent reprisals and foster peaceful resolutions to conflicts.
16. Humanitarian aid workers operate in dangerous environments, risking reprisals to save lives.
17. The journalist's investigative reporting led to reprisals from powerful figures, revealing the risks of exposing corruption.
18. Reprisals against peaceful protestors underscore the importance of safeguarding civil liberties.
19. Reprisals against environmental activists demonstrate the global fight for a sustainable future.
20. Fear of reprisals can deter witnesses from testifying in court, hindering justice.
21. The peace agreement included provisions to prevent reprisals and promote reconciliation.
22. Social media platforms grapple with online reprisals and harassment, raising concerns about digital safety.
23. Swift international response can deter further reprisals in conflict zones.
24. Humanitarian organizations work tirelessly to provide aid to vulnerable populations, even in the face of potential reprisals.
25. Reprisals against political dissidents have sparked calls for stronger protections of free speech.
26. Preventing reprisals is a key component of conflict resolution, requiring diplomacy and international cooperation.