retaliate
verb (used without object)
to return like for like, especially evil for evil.
was retaliating
-
past progressiveof retaliate.past progressive
Used to describe an ongoing action or continuous state that was happening at a specific time in the past.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Meanwhile, China was retaliating with its own tariffs on U.S.-made imports, ultimately set at 125%.
From Los Angeles Times ● May 13, 2025
Min denied the allegations and claimed Hybe was retaliating after she'd complained that another of the label's acts, ILLIT, had copied NewJeans’ identity, styling, choreography and music video concepts.
From BBC ● Sep. 26, 2024
In the case of King, she believes her landlord was retaliating for earlier complaints about mold and water leaks in her three-bedroom house.
From Seattle Times ● Feb. 11, 2022
He said the staffer was retaliating against him for telling her the week before that he planned to replace her.
From Washington Times ● Jan. 13, 2021
With this fish I was retaliating against the sea, against the wind, against the sinking of ships, against all circumstances that were working against me.
From "Life of Pi" by Yann Martel
