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vengeance

noun

/ˈvɛn dʒəns/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of vengeance

The act of inflicting harm, punishment, or retribution upon someone as a response to a perceived wrong or injustice.
"Vengeance consumed his thoughts, driving him to seek revenge at any cost."

Detailed meaning of vengeance

It embodies the desire for retaliation and the seeking of personal justice. It is often driven by a strong emotional response, such as anger, resentment, or a deep sense of betrayal. Vengeance is typically characterized by a deliberate and calculated intent to cause harm or seek redress. It can manifest in various forms, such as physical violence, verbal attacks, legal actions, or other means of causing suffering or harm to the perceived wrongdoer. However, it is important to note that vengeance is distinct from justice, as it often involves a subjective interpretation of wrongdoing and may go beyond what is considered proportionate or morally justifiable. While vengeance may provide a temporary sense of satisfaction or closure to the aggrieved party, it can perpetuate cycles of violence and conflict.

Example sentences containing vengeance

1. The protagonist sought vengeance against the person who had wronged them.
2. The film's plot revolved around a tale of vengeance and redemption.
3. She swore an oath of vengeance, vowing to make her enemies pay.
4. The antagonist's actions were fueled by a thirst for vengeance.
5. In her heart, she harbored a burning desire for vengeance against her betrayers.
6. The tale of vengeance captivated the audience, leaving them on the edge of their seats.

History and etymology of vengeance

The noun 'vengeance' finds its etymological roots in Latin and Old French. It can be traced back to the Latin word 'vindicta,' which means 'revenge' or 'punishment.' Over time, this Latin term was adopted into Old French as 'vengeance,' retaining its core meaning of seeking retribution or inflicting harm as a response to a perceived wrong or injustice. In English, 'vengeance' embodies the concept of seeking payback or retaliation for a perceived offense, reflecting the deep-seated human impulse to address grievances through punitive actions. Its etymology underscores the historical association between vengeance and the pursuit of justice, as well as the enduring nature of this concept in human societies throughout history.

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Further usage examples of vengeance

1. The character's tragic backstory explained their relentless pursuit of vengeance.
2. Revenge was not enough; he wanted to exact his vengeance with cold precision.
3. The vigilante took justice into his own hands, dispensing vengeance on criminals.
4. His actions were driven solely by a desire for vengeance, blinding him to reason.
5. The story explored the destructive consequences of unchecked vengeance.
6. His quest for vengeance consumed his every thought.
7. Vengeance is not a path to lasting satisfaction.
8. The thirst for vengeance blinded his judgment.
9. Seeking vengeance only perpetuates the cycle of violence.
10. Vengeance can be a destructive force in one's life.
11. She swore an oath of vengeance against her enemies.
12. Vengeance can lead to unintended consequences.
13. The pursuit of vengeance can corrode the soul.
14. Revenge and vengeance are often mistaken for justice.
15. The novel's plot revolves around a quest for vengeance.
16. Vengeance fueled his determination to succeed.
17. The movie explores the dark side of vengeance.
18. Vengeance can be a hollow victory in the end.
19. His thirst for vengeance was insatiable.
20. Vengeance tore their once-close friendship apart.
21. Vengeance can be a never-ending cycle of pain.
22. The story's central theme is the cost of vengeance.
23. Seeking vengeance brought him to the brink of madness.
24. Vengeance may provide temporary satisfaction but not peace.
25. The desire for vengeance can cloud one's judgment.