seeking retribution

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "seeking retribution" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the act of pursuing revenge or compensation for a wrong that has been done. Example: "After the betrayal, he found himself seeking retribution against those who had wronged him."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

I am seeking retribution.

The Guardian

But I am not seeking retribution.

The Guardian

He was asked whether he was seeking retribution.

The New York Times

AC Milan insisted they are not seeking retribution after again drawing English opposition.

Independent

Gaddafi threatened to go from house to house in Benghazi seeking retribution.

The Guardian

But others, particularly rightwingers, are seeking retribution, with Assange as the prime target.

The Guardian

They worry about one or two defendants losing their heads and seeking retribution.

The New York Times

We demand that he stop seeking retribution against his political adversaries and their supporters.

The New York Times

The police said Hartsfield was seeking retribution for an altercation with Collier.

The New York Times - Sports

"Quickly, an angry mob gathered, seeking retribution for the rain of bombs.

The New York Times

There's another exciting filly on whom Stevens is seeking retribution: She's A Tiger.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "seeking retribution", ensure the context clearly establishes the prior wrong or injustice that motivates the action. This provides clarity and justification for the pursuit of retribution.

Common error

Avoid using "seeking retribution" in contexts that do not involve a clear sense of injustice or wrongdoing. Overusing it can create an overly dramatic or negative tone where it's not warranted. Opt for more neutral phrases like "seeking compensation" or "addressing grievances" when the situation doesn't imply a need for revenge.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "seeking retribution" is a verb phrase, often used as part of a predicate to describe the action of pursuing revenge or compensation for a perceived wrong. Ludwig AI provides numerous examples where this phrase clearly indicates the active pursuit of justice or vengeance.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Formal & Business

8%

Wiki

4%

Less common in

Academia

1%

Science

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "seeking retribution" is a commonly used verb phrase that describes the act of pursuing revenge or compensation for a perceived wrong. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usage across various contexts, predominantly in news and media. While the phrase is generally neutral in tone, it carries a strong implication of injustice and a desire to correct it. When using "seeking retribution", it's important to ensure the context clearly establishes the prior wrong that motivates the action, and to avoid overuse in situations where a more neutral term like "seeking justice" would be more appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

pursuing vengeance

Focuses on the act of pursuing revenge, emphasizing the intensity and determination behind it.

avenging wrongs

Highlights the act of correcting injustices or harms done, emphasizing the restoration of balance.

taking revenge

Emphasizes the act of inflicting harm or punishment in return for an injury or wrong.

exacting punishment

Focuses on the act of imposing a penalty or suffering on someone for their actions.

getting even

A more informal expression implying a desire to balance a wrong with a similar action.

settling the score

Implies a desire to finalize a conflict or balance a past injustice.

righting a wrong

Highlights the act of correcting an injustice or error, emphasizing the restoration of fairness.

demanding repayment

Suggests seeking compensation or restitution for a loss or harm suffered.

redressing grievances

Focuses on addressing and correcting complaints or injustices suffered.

extracting a reckoning

Implies a forceful or assertive demand for justice or compensation.

FAQs

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

You can use "seeking retribution" to describe someone who is actively pursuing revenge or compensation for a perceived wrong. For example, "After the betrayal, he was "seeking retribution" against those who had wronged him."

What can I say instead of "seeking retribution"?

You can use alternatives like "pursuing vengeance", "avenging wrongs", or "taking revenge" depending on the context.

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

It's appropriate to use "seeking retribution" when someone is actively trying to right a wrong or avenge an injustice that has been committed against them or someone else. It implies a strong desire for justice, often involving a degree of punishment or compensation.

What's the difference between "seeking retribution" and "seeking justice"?

"Seeking retribution" implies a personal desire to avenge a wrong, often with a focus on punishment or revenge. "Seeking justice", on the other hand, is a broader term that encompasses a fair and impartial resolution to a dispute, often through legal or formal channels.