exacting retribution

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "exacting retribution" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the act of demanding or inflicting a severe punishment or vengeance for a perceived wrong. Example: "After the betrayal, she felt justified in exacting retribution on those who had wronged her."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

Of course that could reflect fear of a mayor with a predilection for exacting retribution.

The New York Times

"I see the dead exacting retribution for the way we've treated the earth, and them," Mr. Sturma said.

The New York Times - Books

The Senate Democrats said the rules would muzzle them and further close deliberations to public scrutiny, and they accused the Republicans of exacting retribution for their heightened activism.

The New York Times

For hours, exacting retribution, Israeli tanks and helicopter gunships shelled the refugee camp outside Bethlehem that Israelis described as the source of the attack.

The New York Times

(Golden is something of an avenger, exacting retribution for too much wealth and status by dishing about every rich and famous father's kid's lackluster SAT scores).

The New York Times - Books

By contrast, he said, the African National Congress, led by Mr. Mbeki, is "a great party of liberation" that instead of exacting retribution on whites like himself has shown tolerance since taking power.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

He vows, "From all the gods of Egypt I will exact retribution".

The New Yorker

Force of arms can win territory, cripple an enemy's ability to operate or exact retribution.

The New York Times

Does she know how many people hide behind "advocacy" to exact retribution for personal and political wounds?

The New York Times

SAC could exact retribution on Citigroup by terminating, or at least scaling back, its broader relationship with the bank.

The New York Times

Clifford introduced Francis to the News of the World, which was happy to exact retribution from Archer.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the tone and register of your writing when using "exacting retribution". While grammatically correct, it carries a strong, often negative, connotation. Ensure it aligns with the desired impact of your message.

Common error

Avoid using "exacting retribution" to describe simple corrections or mild consequences. The phrase implies a significant response to a serious offense. Reserve it for contexts where the 'punishment' is substantial and deliberate.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "exacting retribution" is a verb phrase acting as a predicate in a sentence. It typically describes the action of inflicting punishment or demanding compensation for a perceived wrong. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is considered correct in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "exacting retribution" is a grammatically sound expression used to describe the act of inflicting punishment or seeking revenge for a perceived wrong. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is correct and usable in written English. While not exceedingly common, it appears primarily in News & Media contexts, conveying a deliberate and often severe response to an offense. When employing "exacting retribution", it's crucial to consider the tone and ensure it aligns with the severity of the situation being described. Related alternatives include "inflicting vengeance" and "seeking revenge", each offering slightly different nuances. By understanding its implications and usage, writers can effectively communicate the gravity of situations involving punishment and revenge.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

seeking revenge

Highlights the pursuit of revenge.

taking vengeance

Emphasizes the act of avenging a wrong.

inflicting vengeance

This alternative emphasizes the act of imposing revenge.

demanding repayment

Focuses on requiring compensation for a wrong.

meting out justice

Highlights the delivery of what is considered fair.

administering punishment

Focuses on the formal application of penalties.

imposing penalties

Focuses on the act of setting and applying punishments.

requiring satisfaction

Emphasizes the need for amends or appeasement.

settling the score

Implies a final act of balancing past wrongs.

getting even

An informal way to express seeking revenge.

FAQs

How can I use "exacting retribution" in a sentence?

You can use "exacting retribution" to describe a situation where someone is seeking revenge or inflicting punishment for a wrong. For example: "The general was intent on "exacting retribution" for the fallen soldiers".

What is a less formal alternative to "exacting retribution"?

Less formal alternatives to "exacting retribution" include "getting even", "settling the score", or "taking revenge". The choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What is the difference between "retribution" and "revenge"?

"Retribution" often implies a sense of justice or deserved punishment, while "revenge" is more about personal vengeance or satisfaction. "Exacting retribution" suggests a formal or deliberate act, whereas exacting revenge can suggest a more impulsive or personal action.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "exacting retribution"?

It's appropriate to use "exacting retribution" when describing a situation where a significant punishment or act of revenge is being carried out, especially in response to a perceived wrong or injustice. It suggests a calculated and deliberate response.