prompt retaliation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "prompt retaliation" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a quick or immediate response to an action, often in a context of conflict or aggression. Example: "The sudden attack prompted retaliation from the opposing forces, leading to an escalation of the conflict."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

Mr Putin may not suffer prompt retaliation.

The Economist

Finally, it is worth noting that the new tariffs may beget prompt retaliation (the EU has threatened it already).

Stanford University

Defense Secretary Jim Mattis pushed hard to limit the strikes to proven weapons facilities in the hopes that a more limited strike would not prompt retaliation from Russia.

The New York Times

The statements came a week after Iranian lawmakers and military commanders issued sharp threats that any American military strike in Syria would prompt retaliation against Israel — referred to as "the Zionist regime".

The New York Times

With that threat, which the administration knew would prompt retaliation by the Israelis and annexation of settlements on the West Bank, the risk of increasing violence was unacceptably high, the official said.

The New York Times

For example, the Defense Department, which is authorized to conduct clandestine military activities in cyberspace, might not be as clued in as DHS is to how some of those activities could prompt retaliation against U.S. businesses.

The Washington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

The Fordney-McCumber tariff prompted retaliation from European governments but did little to dampen U.S. prosperity.

Britannica

This bombardment prompted retaliation by Argentine fighter-bombers flying from the mainland 400 miles away, near the limit of their useful combat range.

The Guardian

The Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army (Arsa) had launched attacks on police posts and an army base last month, prompting retaliation by Myanmar's military.

The Guardian

After years of ambiguity, the Israel leadership has grown bolder about acknowledging strikes in Syria just after they occur, raising fears of prompting retaliation.

The New York Times

By raising the average tariff by some 20percentt, it also prompted retaliation from foreign governments, and many overseas banks began to fail.

Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider using "prompt retaliation" when describing immediate responses in scenarios involving conflict, policy changes, or competitive actions to highlight the speed and decisiveness of the reaction.

Common error

Avoid using "prompt retaliation" in contexts where the response is not significant or immediate. Overusing it can diminish its impact and create a sense of exaggerated urgency where it's not warranted.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "prompt retaliation" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "prompt" modifies the noun "retaliation". According to Ludwig, this phrase describes an immediate or swift response to an action, typically in contexts involving conflict or competition.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Academia

15%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "prompt retaliation" is a phrase used to describe a swift response to an action, typically in contexts of conflict or competition. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase is grammatically correct and frequently used in news and academic sources. While there are several alternative phrases, such as "immediate reprisal", "prompt retaliation" is a common way to convey the speed and decisiveness of a reaction. When using the phrase, ensure the context clearly establishes the action leading to the response to avoid ambiguity. Its prevalent usage in reputable sources makes it a reliable and effective term for describing such scenarios.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

immediate reprisal

Emphasizes the immediacy and forceful nature of the response.

swift comeback

Focuses on the speed and restorative aspect of the response.

rapid counteraction

Highlights the quick and opposing nature of the action taken.

instantaneous payback

Stresses the speed and retributive nature of the response.

quickened reciprocation

Focuses on the hastened and mutual exchange of actions.

expeditious requital

Emphasizes the efficient and deserved nature of the response.

accelerated vengeance

Highlights the hastened and revengeful character of the response.

untimely counterstrike

Emphasizes the inopportune and aggressive reaction.

speedy redress

Focuses on the fast and rectifying nature of the response.

hasty avengement

Stresses the rushed and vindictive nature of the action.

FAQs

What does "prompt retaliation" mean?

"Prompt retaliation" refers to an immediate or very quick response to an action, often in the context of conflict or aggression. It implies that the response is both timely and reactive.

How can I use "prompt retaliation" in a sentence?

You can use "prompt retaliation" to describe a situation where someone responds quickly to an attack or provocation. For example: "The military strike "prompted retaliation" from the opposing forces."

What are some alternatives to "prompt retaliation"?

Alternatives to "prompt retaliation" include "immediate reprisal", "swift comeback", or "rapid counteraction", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "prompt retaliation" formal or informal?

"Prompt retaliation" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, although it is often found in news reports and academic discussions related to conflict, politics, and economics. It is considered relatively neutral in tone.