seeking revenge

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "seeking revenge" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you are describing someone or something that is attempting to take revenge against someone or something else. For example, "After his father's death, the angry young man spent hours seeking revenge against the man who had killed him."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

Is he seeking revenge?

Independent

Did it feel better than seeking revenge?

The Guardian - Opinion

Seeking revenge won't bring relief, either.

The New Yorker

Is El Quemado a torture victim seeking revenge?

Independent

I worried he might come after me seeking revenge.

The New York Times

The women were not necessarily seeking revenge or legal action.

Independent

"But history is a poor medium for seeking revenge".

The New York Times - Books

To be honest, I was worried he was seeking revenge.

The Guardian

Give them peace, God, for people seeking revenge toward me".

The Guardian

Is he an avenger who punishes people – for seeking revenge?

The Guardian - Film

They are not seeking revenge for the past.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "seeking revenge", consider the intensity of the situation and choose synonyms that accurately reflect the character's mindset and actions. Words like "avenging" suggest a moral justification, while "retaliating" simply indicates a response to harm.

Common error

While "seeking revenge" is widely understood, avoid using it excessively in highly formal or academic writing. Opt for more nuanced alternatives like "pursuing justice" or "demanding accountability" to maintain a professional tone when suitable.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "seeking revenge" functions primarily as a verb phrase, often acting as a gerund or participle within a sentence. It describes an ongoing action or state of actively pursuing retribution. As evidenced by Ludwig, it commonly appears as part of a larger clause describing motivations or intentions.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Wiki

15%

Science

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "seeking revenge" is a grammatically correct and commonly used verb phrase that describes the act of pursuing retribution. As Ludwig AI indicates, it functions as a verb phrase expressing intention or motivation and is found across various contexts, particularly in news media and online encyclopedias. While generally neutral in register, careful consideration should be given to the tone and formality of the writing context when choosing synonyms. Avoiding overuse in formal writing and understanding the subtle differences between related phrases like "pursuing vengeance" and "getting even" can enhance clarity and precision. Be direct and clear while using this phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

pursuing vengeance

Emphasizes a more formal or determined approach to revenge.

avenging wrongdoing

Focuses on correcting a perceived wrong, adding a moral dimension.

retaliating for harm

Highlights the act of responding to inflicted harm.

getting retribution

Focuses on obtaining deserved punishment or compensation.

extracting vengeance

Suggests a forceful or deliberate act of obtaining revenge.

on a quest for revenge

Suggests a long and involved pursuit of revenge.

bent on revenge

Implies a determined and unwavering focus on revenge.

vengeful pursuit

Highlights the act of following revenge.

determined to get even

A more colloquial way of expressing the desire for revenge, implying a desire for balance.

out for retaliation

Emphasizes the intention to respond in kind to a perceived offense.

FAQs

What does "seeking revenge" mean?

The phrase "seeking revenge" refers to the act of attempting to get even with someone who has caused you harm or committed a wrongdoing against you. It implies an active pursuit of retribution.

What can I say instead of "seeking revenge"?

You can use alternatives like "pursuing vengeance", "avenging wrongdoing", or "retaliating for harm" depending on the context.

Is "seeking revenge" the same as "getting revenge"?

"Seeking revenge" implies the attempt to get revenge, whereas "getting revenge" implies the successful completion of the act. The former focuses on the pursuit, the latter on the outcome.

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

The phrase "seeking revenge" is appropriate when describing a character's motivations in fiction, analyzing historical events, or discussing interpersonal conflicts where retribution is a driving factor. Be mindful of the connotations and choose language that aligns with the intended tone.