getting even

NOUN

eye for an eye

Synonyms

WEAK

avenging measure for measure payback reprisal retaliation retribution revenge tit for tat tooth for a tooth vengeance vindication

NOUN

revenge

Synonyms

STRONGEST

attack reprisal retribution vengeance

STRONG

animus avenging counterblow counterinsurgency counterplay fight malevolence rancor repayment requital return ruthlessness satisfaction sortie spitefulness vengefulness vindictiveness

WEAK

avengment eye for an eye ill will implacability measure for measure tit for tat

Antonyms

STRONGEST

forgiveness pardon sympathy

NOUN

vengeance

Synonyms

STRONGEST

reprisal retribution revenge

STRONG

counterblow repayment requital return vengefulness wrath

WEAK

avengement avenging evening of score eye for an eye settling of score tit for tat

Antonyms

STRONGEST

forgiveness pardon sympathy

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.

They thought he was still hung up on getting even with the government.

From Slate • Mar. 25, 2026

The trouble is to know when, which means watching for the initial signs of market chaos getting even worse—and knowing yourself.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 8, 2026

“And these features are driving engagement and getting even more effective with time.”

From MarketWatch • Nov. 7, 2025

“I can argue I’m getting even hungrier,” said the 6-foot-5, 210-pounder.

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 12, 2025

The sole exception turned out to be Amy, who is capable of getting even without first getting mad.

From "Me Talk Pretty One Day" by David Sedaris

getting even

Example Sentences

Related Words